Light and Heat

Staying the Course

2011-09-07T15:44:00.000-05:00

Some of the most memorable speeches ever are those given by leaders about to step away from their office. In Joshua chapter 23, Joshua knows that his life is drawing near its close, so he calls the Israelite leaders and delivers a farewell address to them, since they would be the successors to his leadership. As Joshua reminds Israel's leaders of all the good things God has done for them, what are their ongoing responsibilities in return? What important lessons can Christians learn from Joshua about "staying the course"?

Should Christians Pay For ObamaCare?

2010-04-06T08:08:00.000-05:00

In recent months many Christians in my congregation have been discussing the implications of the new ObamaCare health plan. Knowing that President Obama's "executive order" is not legislative in nature--- it is very possible (and likely) that at least some of our tax dollars will be used to fund abortions.

How should Christians respond to this situation? Is it acceptable for us to refuse to pay our taxes, citing abortion as our primary reasoning? Is this an acceptable form of 'civil disobedience' according to the Scriptures?

With ObamaCare now a law, more and more Christians are having to wrestle through these important spiritual, moral, and biblical issues. If you are just now starting to wade through this subject, I invite you to read this very helpful post from Dr. Al Mohler.

In the end, my personal view is that as Christians we must continue to pay taxes "to Caesar" even if we do not fully approve of what "Caesar" does with the funds. At present there are many things that the federal government uses funds for that are contrary to the basic principles of sacred Scripture.

However, as I see the Scriptures the only time civil disobedience is acceptable is when the government tries to bind your individual conscience by directly commanding actions in your personal life which are contrary to God's Word. i.e. "You cannot worship..." "You cannot pray..." "You cannot speak about Jesus Christ..."

I abhor the idea of the government being in the health insurance business, because I know they are predisposed to the acceptance of abortion. But that doesn't mean I should disobey God and refuse to pay taxes.

On My Desk and Nightstand...

2010-03-03T15:48:00.001-05:00

I wanted to post a short update today about the good books that I've been enjoying the last few weeks. If you're looking for something to inform your mind or stir your soul, here are a few recommendations.

1. A Heart Set Free, The Life of Charles Wesley by Arnold Dallimore. Most of us know that Charles Wesley was an extraordinary hymn-writer, who penned thousands and thousands of lyrics that continue to edify the church today. What you may not know was that Wesley was also a powerful preacher who led many people to the Savior. He was a remarkable man, and a worthy "third" to the two leaders of early Methodism--- George Whitefield and John Wesley.

2. Winning with People by John C. Maxwell. I always enjoy John's material, and over the years he has helped me become a better leader and pastor. This book highlights twenty-five principles that can help you have success with people--- no matter who you are.

3. The Truth War by John MacArthur. In a postmodern culture, anything and everything goes--- because truth is whatever you want it to be. Unfortunately, postmodernism has slowly but surely been infiltrating the church, and many churches are being drawn away from "the faith once for all delivered to the saints". In this book, John MacArthur outlines the "truth war" happening all around us, especially in modern America, and shows how Christians need to stand up and defend the faith.

After The Rapture....Care For Your Pet

2010-02-24T09:17:00.000-05:00

This is not a joke, but a real group of Christians organizing care for the pets of believers who are taken up in the Rapture. "After The Rapture Pet Care" Something tells me this is not helping the dispensationalist cause. Somewhere a group of amillenialists are laughing uncontrollably.

Be More Than Others

2010-02-17T12:42:00.005-05:00

This week in my reading I came across these words which were so powerful I decided to record them in my journal. They struck such a chord with me about the mindset and attitude I want to have in my own Christian life. Here are the words I wrote in today's journal entry:

I will care more than others think is wise.
I will risk more than others think is safe.
I will dream more than others think is practical.
I will expect more than others think is possible.
I will work more than others think is necessary.
I will pray more than others think is required.

Avoiding the Ditch

2010-02-11T16:01:00.000-05:00

All over the mid-Atlantic, drivers are carefully maneuvering their vehicles on snow-covered streets and roads, desperate to avoid crashing into parked cars, telephone poles, and especially the ditch. Good drivers know that danger isn't just always on the right side of the car-- it's just as present on the left.

There's an important spiritual lesson to be drawn here for us as Christians. As we make our way through the Christian life, we are striving to stay "in the center" by closely following the revealed truth of Scripture by the help of the Holy Spirit. But dangers are near.

On the right hand is the dangerous ditch of "legalism"--- which is characterized by long lists of 'do's' and 'don'ts' which most often have their source in preferences and opinions rather than Scriptural truth. Believers who crash into this ditch are continually arguing over things like hair-lengths, dress codes, and whether or not Christians should forsake movie theatres. But that's just the ditch on the right.

On the left is the dangerous ditch of "license" which is fast-growing in its ability to ruin believers. "License" is characterized by so-called 'Christian freedom' in which believers can do whatever they like, so long as they don't violate their own conscience or a specific chapter/verse spelled out in the Bible. Believers who crash into this ditch embrace any and all activities their hearts desire--- especially the questionable ones--- without stopping to think of how their actions might affect another brother or sister in Christ. In other words, while they might be mature in their 'knowledge'-- their knowledge is often missing the key ingredient of love.

The point is it's awful slippery out there, Christian friend--- so be careful. In recent days I've seen a lot of cars and Christians in the ditch, both on the right and the left.

Lord God, protect us from the dangers of the ditch. Help us find the Spirit-directed, Scripture-informed, love-driven center of the Christian life.

A Basketball Prank That Backfired

2010-02-05T08:41:00.001-05:00

A high school girls basketball coach in Kansas was being set up for the prank of the year. Blindfolded, spun around, and stationed at half-court-- the coach was told that he would get free tickets to the Final Four if he made the shot. Knowing this shot is 99.99999% impossible--- the crowd was told to cheer (they were in on it) when the coach missed the shot--- making him think for a moment that he won the tickets. Then-- the joke would be on him.

Only one problem. Their coach was a 1997 walk-on to the University of Kansas basketball team. Watch what happened....

You can read the rest of the story over at Yahoo Sports. Have a great weekend.

Detained Americans in Haiti Speak Out

2010-02-03T10:06:00.002-05:00

10 Baptists Jailed in Haiti

2010-02-02T14:10:00.001-05:00

An interesting story is late-breaking about some Baptist church members from Idaho who are currently under arrest in Haiti, accused by the Haitian government of "child-trafficking"--- taking children outside the country without permission. These Christians were in Haiti helping with the relief efforts-- particularly with children.

If you want to read about this ongoing saga---- MSNBC has the latest breaking news of the ten believers' ordeal, as well as the Southern Baptist Convention which is keeping tabs on the situation. Eight of the Christians are connected with two Southern Baptist Churches in Idaho.

I have trouble believing that these Christians were truly "child trafficking" as they are being accused of. With all the mass chaos and confusion happening in this earthquake-stricken country, it sounds like a serious over-reaction based on miscommunication.

Take a moment and pray today for these Christians who are at the mercy of the Haitian government. Ask God to assure that justice is done in this delicate situation. Take a look at that picture and remember----those women are much-loved wives, mothers, and daughters whose families want them to come come.

Does God Hate Haiti?

2010-01-16T12:47:00.002-05:00

In the wake of much theological discussion about God and the massive earthquake that rocked Haiti-- I appreciated Dr. Al Mohler's perspective which you can read here.

Lord, Please Bless...My Cell Phone

2010-01-12T08:51:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, the Rev. Canon David Parrott blessed mobile phones and laptop computers at the St. Lawrence Jewry Church in London. The service, he said, was to "remind the capital's busy office workers that God's grace can reach them in many ways."

You can read the rest of the story here. [Telegraph, UK]

Want to write a caption for these pictures? Have at it in the comment section below.

Good for you, Brit Hume

2010-01-08T08:35:00.001-05:00

I'm not sure if you saw this, but on Sunday-- Fox News chief political correspondent and conservative Christian Brit Hume made a remark that Tiger Woods can find forgiveness and redemption in Jesus Christ.

While many people are angry and upset at Brit's comments-- we applaud his courage to speak up for the Christian faith and declare in the public forum what so many Christians are privately thinking: "Jesus Christ offers to Tiger Woods something that Tiger Woods desperately needs---- forgiveness and redemption."

Brit is standing by his comments, as he was interviewed on Fox News' Bill O'Reilly program:

It's Back: Christmas Caption Contest

2009-12-24T20:52:00.004-05:00

Last year at Christmas, this nativity scene appeared in my neighborhood--- and the crack reporting team at Light and Heat has learned that Mary and Joseph have again paid extra so that their stable might have DirecTV.

All readers are invited to write a caption for this scene. Leave your best caption in the comment section below.

Merry Christmas!

Thou Shalt Shoplift?

2009-12-23T08:39:00.005-05:00

In a story that continues to make headlines around the world, last weekend in his Sunday sermon, an Anglican priest in the UK advised his church congregation to shoplift if they are short on funds, food, or basic necessities.

How this man can advise such a practice in light of clear, explicit Scriptural commands on the issue is beyond me.

You don't need a theological degree to understand the truth of Eph. 4:28 ESV "Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor, doing honest work with his own hands, so that he may have something to share with anyone in need."

Regardless of the economy or one's socio-economic condition--- stealing is never a viable option for the Christian-- no matter how many priests endorse it.

Alive and Kicking

2009-12-21T09:37:00.004-05:00

One of the best and surest ways to kill your blog is to stop posting on it for a lengthy period of time. Let me assure you that I'm not trying to kill this blog-- I've just been extraordinarily busy over the last three weeks. It's been all I can do just to get my regular work accomplished and a good night's sleep-- let alone a blog post.

In addition to my regular preaching duties, this semester I took a class at Baptist Bible Seminary on "Ephesians" with Dr. Gary Gromacki. It was a fantastic class-- great to dig into the depths of one of the best of Paul' epistles. The hard part was reading over 1,200 pages from class notes and textbooks-- and having to write two scholarly, single-spaced term papers-- both due a week apart. My first paper was on "Strength for Spiritual Battle" - an exegetical look at Eph. 6:10-12; my second paper was "Pictures that Proclaim: Metaphors of the Church in Ephesians". I got an "A" on the first paper--- waiting to hear the news on the second paper. Any classes I take in Seminary now push my ever closer toward my Doctor of Ministry degree.

On the days I wasn't preparing for a SERMON, writing a TERM PAPER, or concluding my 1,200 page requirement--- I was coaching the Immanuel Christian School varsity basketball team. We have at least one win this year--- a knock-out, drag-out, heavyweight slug-fest which we won on the road in Sunbury. Another game tomorrow night away at Columbia County Christian School, where we're looking for revenge from an earlier beat-down.

You might remember back in October, I was asked by WRGN Christian radio to record some "Scripture of the Day" segments.

Apparently, I did a good enough job that they've asked me to return and record some new segments to appear on-air next week. I'm supposed to make a trek up to the station tomorrow to record....which means I'm back on writing duty today. Hopefully things will go smoothly-- because I've still got to prepare for 3 sermons this week (one Wednesday and two Sunday) and an adult Sunday School class lesson on Acts. Oh yeah--- Christmas has to fit in there too.

Tonight Heather and I have a date night planned where we get to conclude all our Christmas shopping, so I'm looking forward to that. With the age of our boys right now, we are in that special season of life when Christmas is filled with wonder and magic. Our 4 year old Seth has been singing Christmas songs outloud for two weeks now-- and its adorable. Really looking forward to Christmas Day-- which we will celebrate this year in Maryland. (If they can dig us out a parking spot after the blizzard).

Merry Christmas everyone. May the Lord Jesus Christ be the center of your celebration!

Too Much Turkey

2009-12-04T13:57:00.003-05:00

Missions Conference 2009

2009-11-23T16:48:00.001-05:00

Last night our church concluded a two-day Missions Conference on the theme "Good News for the Nations". Our special guests were Travis Gravley-- missionary to Romania, and Aaron Shipe-- missionary to Tanzania. It was great having these men and their families with us, and it was a wonderful time for our church family to be freshly reminded of our Great Commission task. All the audio is now online, and the video from Sunday morning should arrive a little later this week.

I especially enjoyed moderating the question and answer session between these two missionaries on Sunday evening. It was great to talk about missions, missionary heroes, and the blessings and challenges of deputation. Enjoy!

Dog-Centric Worship Services...Coming to a Church Near You

2009-11-14T11:27:00.002-05:00

Things have really changed for pets over the last twenty-five years or so. With the ever-increasing phenomenon of animal rights and the growing belief that pets are actual "members of the family"--- Fido the Dog and Felix the Cat have had all kinds of new doors opened to them:

Pet Health Insurance
Pet pictures with Santa or the Easter Bunny
Pet blessings with the local priest
Pet massage therapy
Pet vitamin regemins
Even Pet SNUGGIES

However, Dr. Al Mohler has an interesting follow-up article on the recent Associated Press story which looked at a California church now having services for people and their dogs, "Canines at Covenant".

Will this be coming to a church near you? You better believe it. Just another tragic example of how far the church has fallen in America.

Noah's Ark...in the Netherlands

2009-11-12T08:54:00.004-05:00

In May 2005, Dutch contractor Johan Huibers decided to build a replica of Noah's Ark as a testament to the truthfulness and reliability of the Bible. In 2007, the Ark opened in his home country of the Netherlands, and it has been thrilling crowds ever since.

The ark is 150 cubits long, 30 cubits high and 20 cubits wide. That's two-thirds the length of a football field and as high as a three-story house. Life-size models of giraffes, elephants, lions, crocodiles, zebras, bison and other animals greet visitors as they arrive in the main hold.

A contractor by trade, Huibers built the ark of cedar and pine. Biblical Scholars debate exactly what the wood used by Noah would have been. Huibers did the work mostly with his own hands, using modern tools and with occasional help from his son Roy. Construction began in May 2005. On the uncovered top deck-- not quite ready in time for the opening-- will come a petting zoo, with baby lambs and chickens, and goats, and one camel.

There is enough space near the keel for a 50-seat film theater where kids can watch a video that tells the story of Noah and his ark. Huibers, a Christian man, said he hopes the project will renew interest in Christianity in the Netherlands, where church going has fallen dramatically in the past 50 years.

Pope Benedict....Meet E.T.

2009-11-11T13:53:00.000-05:00

In an article posted today, the Associated Press is reporting that the Roman Catholic Church is officially open to discussing the reality of alien life on other planets--- and the implications of it on Roman Catholic faith and practice.

Surely, this brings whole new meaning to people wearing hats in church.

She Watched an Ultrasound...Then Quit Her Job At Planned Parenthood

2009-11-03T22:21:00.003-05:00

This story has really been making waves in the news over the last seven days. Abby Johnson used to work as a director at Planned Parenthood, but that all changed when she saw an abortion take place on an ultrasound. Amazingly, she quit her job and joined the pro-life advocates who gathered to protest and pray in front of her facility.

What another powerful reminder to us that when people see inside the womb--- they see God's creative hand at work (Ps. 139:13) and it literally takes their breath away to think of destroying what is so wonderfully amazing.

What is the "Prosperity Gospel" and why is it so awful?

2009-11-03T12:04:00.003-05:00

John Piper explains:

Why I Won't Celebrate Halloween

2009-10-30T21:07:00.002-05:00

Phil. 4:8 ESV "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things."

Comment: I do not see anything particularly praiseworthy, pure, or lovely about Halloween.

1 Thess. 5:22 ESV "Abstain from every form of evil."

Comment: Evil is celebrated and glamorized at Halloween.

Eph. 6:12 ESV "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."

Comment: Satan and his forces of evil are not lighthearted play-things or figments of men's imaginations, but genuine realities and personalities whose purpose is to thwart the plan of God and destroy people's lives.

Gal. 5:19-21 ESV "Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery... and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God."

Comment: Halloween makes light and smiles at the idea of magic, witchcraft, and sorcery. According to Scripture these things are real-- and stand contrary to Christ.

2 Cor. 11:14 ESV "And no wonder, for even Satan disguises himself as an angel of light."

Comment: The world says Halloween is a non-religious, secular holiday built around candy, costumes, and fun. This is absolutely false (do the research) and this is exactly how Satan wants it. The world believes it to be harmless, but the truth is Halloween exalts the dark, devilish side of the spiritual realm.

Matthew 5:14-16 ESV “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

Comment: Hiding one's face behind scary make-up or a ghoulish mask and joining the unsaved world in a night of open "darkness" doesn't sound like "light" to me, no matter how Christians try to justify it. On the darkest night of the year, I cannot and will not knowingly extinguish my light.

James 4:17 ESV "So whoever knows the right thing to do and fails to do it, for him it is sin."

Romans 14:5 ESV "Each one should be fully convinced in his own mind."

Comment: Based on all my research on the background, history, and practices related to Halloween, as well as the Scriptural teachings regarding the destructive, life-ruining power of evil, Satan, and his demonic forces at work in the world--- I cannot participate in Halloween without violating my own conscience.

Luther: Here I Stand

2009-10-29T07:06:00.000-05:00

In light of the coming Reformation Day (October 31st), Max McLean's ministry is offering a free download of a dramatic performance of Martin Luther's famous "Here I Stand" speech-- the speech that changed the course of Christianity and launched the Protestant Reformation.

This download is available for free until November 1st, 2009. I downloaded it this week and enjoyed it immensely. Max McLean's performance is superior and the audio also includes a brief historical overview of the events leading up to Luther's famous speech. Take advantage of this free gift---put away the Halloween candy--- and celebrate Reformation Day!

Friday Fun Bonus Post

2009-10-23T10:22:00.011-05:00

To celebrate the release of Windows new operating system, Japanese Burger King's are unveiling the Windows 7 Whopper!
Burger King stores in Japan are exclusively selling the Windows 7 Whopper, which expands the commonplace Whopper dramatically. At over five inches in height, the burger includes seven beef patties! To build on the 7 theme, the first 30 customers of each day will receive the Windows 7 Whopper for only 777 yen, about $8.50 American. After that, it will be sold for double the price, 1,450 yen.
Japan isn’t the only country getting special treatment. Microsoft also conducted a promotion in the Netherlands, where they gave our free copies of the system to residents of the village Zevenhuizen, which translates in English to “Seven Houses.” Who's hungry?

Friday Fun

2009-10-23T07:20:00.002-05:00

Is it possible for 1,000 cellphones syncing 53 different ringtone alerts from 2,000 sent messages to reconstruct Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture? Watch and see.

A Really Bold Prayer...Answered.

2009-10-22T10:07:00.001-05:00

"In 1540 Martin Luther's good friend and assistant Friedrich Myconius, became sick and was expected to die within a short time. From his bed he wrote a tender farewell letter to Luther. When Luther received the message, he immediately sent back a reply: "I command thee in the name of God to live because I still have need of thee in the work of reforming the church...The Lord will never let me hear that thou art dead, but will permit thee to survive me. For this I am praying, this is my will, and may my will be done, because I seek only to glorify the name of God."

Those words seem harsh and insensitive to modern ears, but God apparently honored the prayer. Although Myconius had already lost the ability to speak when Luther's reply came, he soon recovered. He lived six more years and died two months after Luther."

John MacArthur, The MacArthur New Testament Commentary: Ephesians (Chicago: Moody Press, 1986), 103-104.

Security Officer Catches Thief....Then Gets Fired

2009-10-21T22:06:00.000-05:00

Isn't it the job of a security protection officer to catch criminals? In most places, yes. In a Florida Wal-Mart, no. Here's an amazing story that will make you shake your head in disbelief.

A Wal-Mart "asset protection officer" apprehended a knife-wielding shoplifter--- and was fired by Wal-Mart corporate the next morning.

As my father often says, "Wake up, America!"

Liturgical Dance: Yes, No, Maybe?

2009-10-20T09:01:00.009-05:00

Ok, I admit I'm still trying to work through this one. I just received a brand-new catalog in the church mailbox: Spiritual Expressions, Worship Dancewear.
Perhaps you didn't realize it, but in addition to the many praise bands, orchestras, worship teams, puppet teams, and sign-language teams--- many churches are building "liturgical dance" into their services. Rick Warren's Saddleback Church in Orange County, California actually has a "hula-praise" ministry.

One website promoting a liturgical dance troupe in North Carolina declared that:

“Liturgical dance is dance or gesture used within worship (by skilled or novice dancers) for the glory of God. It is intended to add depth and dimension to the spoken or sung text and/or music within the worship service by use of visual display, as enhancement for the words as they come to life through movement and drama. Liturgical dance may also be performed in silence without the use of words or music. Many of the movements choreographed are literal and easily understood by those witnessing while the dancers create a tapestry of movement for the viewer much like an externalized prayer.

Sacred dance has been a continued presence in many faith practices since the beginning of time and has a long, rich history, especially in the Christian faith. Within the Holy Bible of Judeo-Christian scriptures, so much of the history of the Hebrew people is threaded time after time with accounts of dances of the sacred, both communal and solo, in prayer or in celebration.”

Now listen. I'll be the first to acknowledge that the Lord is a masterfully artistic God who filled His creation with beautiful things that bring us enjoyment and Him glory. Ephesians 2:10 actually declares that in regards to our salvation "we are His workmanship.." i.e. 'God's work of art'. God is the Grand Artist of all things beautiful in the universe, which surely includes what we would call "the arts".

Many Christians who perform liturgical dance in public worship would be quick to point to 2 Sam. 6:14 where David danced before the Lord. I grant them that. I think it is possible for an individual person to dance a holy dance to God in personalized celebration and worship--- just as an individual person can paint a glorifying piece of artwork, sing a glorifying song of praise, or offer a glorifying prayer.

But what troubles me most about "liturgical dance" is the fact that WE'RE WATCHING. Watching someone sing or pray or paint is one thing-- but watching them contort their bodies in varying positions (or shaking their hips in a hula) is something else.

What I mean to ask is this: How does liturgical dance keep the ultimate focus on God's majesty and not the women's bodies? Even if performers are wearing modest clothing and dancing to worshipful music-- doesn't public dancing increase the "lust quotient"---especially for the men in the audience? I think it's worth nothing that choirs, instrumentalists, readers, puppeteers, sign-language interpreters, or people praying do not have to worry about their contribution to public worship possibly degrading into a voyeuristic show.

All I'm saying here is that for me, the jury is still out on liturgical dance in public worship. What do you say?

Was it possible for Jesus to sin?

2009-10-20T07:52:00.000-05:00

John Piper differentiates between the natural and moral possibility of sin as they relate to Jesus' perfection.

For more Q&A with John Piper, check out Ask Pastor John. New episodes are posted 3 times a week.

Friday Fun

2009-10-16T07:30:00.003-05:00

Smile, it's Friday. Have a great weekend!

Happy 99th, Coach

2009-10-15T11:39:00.000-05:00

Yesterday the greatest college basketball coach in history celebrated his 99th birthday: John Wooden.
As part of his birthday celebration he's promoting a brand new book on the power of mentoring--- but what is his favorite book? The Bible. Even apart from the coaching, the championships, and the records, John Wooden is an amazing man. Want to see what I mean? Check out John Wooden's interview with ESPN's Rick Reilly.

Tim Tebow: Gridiron Warrior...Gospel Proclaimer

2009-10-14T08:31:00.003-05:00

Who is the best player in college football today? Ask anyone who knows college football, and the answer will always be the same: Tim Tebow.

Recently, Sports Illustrated did an article on Tim Tebow-- the Heisman-winning quarterback for Florida who is an outspoken, evangelical Christian.

Some players put Scripture verses on their eye-black for game day, but that is the extent of their gospel witness. This article is an amazing insight into the young man who not only wears his testimony on his eye-black-- but boldly proclaims it in the most unlikely places.

Great read. I recommend it to you--- especially you football fans.

The Heat Is On Benny Hinn and Televangelists

2009-10-10T20:51:00.003-05:00

Benny Hinn's ministry has been having a tough year-- and I'm not complaining. The Texas-based traveling "faith-healer" was recently banned from entry into the UK.

Can we ban him from the United States as well?

In addition to last week's denied entry into Great Britain, his "ministry"---- in particular his ministry finances---continues to be under investigation by the U.S. Senate Finance Committee for possible financial misconduct. It's reported that his ministry takes in nearly 100 million every single year.

In addition to the government, groups like Ministry Watch are keeping a close eye on the multi-millionaires who are jet-setting around the world in the name of God:

If Benny Hinn is worried about giving an account to the U.S. Government, I've got news for him. Someday He's going to have to give an account to the Lord for his charlatan act in Jesus' name.

A Pyramid of Biblical Encouragement

2009-10-07T13:26:00.002-05:00

God

God is able

God is able to do

God is able to do what we ask

God is able to do what we ask or think

God is able to do all that we ask or think

God is able to do above all that we ask or think

God is able to do abundantly above all that we ask or think

Ephesians 3:20-21

Be encouraged on this Wednesday.
What an incredible God we serve!

International Blasphemy Day

2009-10-06T21:32:00.004-05:00

In my Sunday morning message this week, I made mention of a new holiday that launched this year on September 30th: International Blasphemy Day. If you would like to read more about it, I invite you to check out this article from the venerable Dr. Albert Mohler, President of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. Should we scream, protest, or come to blows over this kind of radical dishonoring of God's name and character? Thanks, Dr. Mohler-- for your excellent response.

Guest Appearance on Christian Radio

2009-10-01T09:29:00.001-05:00

Last week I was cordially invited by WRGN Christian Radio near Wilkes-Barre to participate in their "Scripture of the Day" segment. For each of the five segments I recorded, I blended an important verse from the Scriptures with a "did you know" Christian biographical sketch from church history. Some verses from the Bible have had a significant impact on the lives of well-known Christian heroes, and I wanted listeners to get a taste of their stories.

Here are the five scripts I recorded-- which are airing all this week:

Charles Spurgeon

Martin Luther

John Bunyan

Charles Wesley

William Tyndale

If God Controls All Things, Why Pray?

2009-09-28T13:08:00.006-05:00

"If God is in charge of everything and has "foreordained whatsoever comes to pass"-- in the words of the Westminster Shorter Catechism--what is the point of praying? In fact, what is the point of doing anything? Why witness? Why study the Bible? Why do good works? If what is going to happen is going to happen anyway, none of those things count. We might as well do as we please and let God do what he wants.

The reasonable answer to this objection is that although God does do as he pleases, he uses means like prayer, witnessing, Bible reading, and the doing of good works. So it is just as correct to say with James "You do not have, because you do not ask God" (James 4:2), as it is to say, "The will of God is done." If we do not pray, the good things for which we pray will not happen, since it is through prayer that God brings the blessing."

James Montgomery Boice, Ephesians: An Expositional Commentary (Grand Rapids: Baker Books, 1988), 33.

Breaking News! Ipod Nano Survives Washing Machine

2009-09-25T19:22:00.005-05:00

Last Saturday morning, my thirteen year old son Walker was frantically looking everywhere for his Apple iPod Nano. He turned the entire house upside down looking for it, knowing that the battery was dead and he wanted to charge it up.

I was in the laundry room with my wife Heather when the tragedy struck. As she was unloading the washing machine and about to switch the clothes over to the dryer, she reached into a pair of Walker's pajama pants only to discover a pair of white headphones. At the very bottom of the washing machine we found the iPod. It had gone through an entire wash cycle...submerged in water...with detergent.

Uh-oh.

After furiously reading many articles on the Internet (apparently iPods have a curious way of falling into puddles, sinks, tubs, and yes--- toilets), we discovered that the best way to dry out any electronic device is to put it inside a zip-lock bag filled with rice. The rice is ultra-absorbent and is supposed to draw out all the moisture from the item.

After six days, we opened the bag tonight and...eureka! The moment we plugged it in, it synced with Walker's iTunes account to much rejoicing. I have to admit I am extremely amazed, but very grateful that my son didn't have to lose something he worked so hard to purchase with his own money. However, my thankfulness pales in comparison to that of a much-rejoicing son!

Say what you want about Apple and their cultural 'hipness'... their product took the worst we could accidentally throw at it, and it came through with flying colors. Beautiful pixel colors, that is.

Have a great weekend.

Struggling for Assurance and Victory

2009-09-23T14:02:00.008-05:00

Last week I received an email written by a Christian struggling with assurance of salvation and the absence of victorious Christian living. Since these two areas are commonplace among believers, I thought it might be helpful for others to read this inquiry as well as my response. There is hope for us when we struggle with discouragement and doubts!

The email began:

"How do you know if you're saved? I used to be so sure and lately I find myself thinking about death more, thinking about the after life and eternity. I've talked to other Christians who said they've experienced similar and kind of bounced back from it. I want to believe I'm going to heaven but I feel that I'm not worthy, which I know I'm not, but like God won't forgive me for things I've done. Its depressing and I feel like giving up sometimes. I want to change that but I feel like I'm such a downward spiral, I know what I need to do to change and I almost feel as if there is no point in changing."

Here was my reply:

When it comes to understanding the "certainty" of our salvation-- God has given us two very powerful witnesses to give us assurance and daily confidence.

Witness #1--- His Word Before You. (External) God has spoken clearly and definitively in His Word over and over again about our salvation. If a person truly has believed on Christ for salvation-- God's Word says that person is born again and bound for heaven. This is a rock-solid fact that stands true--- even when a person doesn't FEEL like they're saved. Have you truly accepted Christ? Are you trusting in Him alone for your salvation? If so-- then take a closer look at John 3:16 and John 5:24 again for renewed assurance. If you have trusted Christ--- you will not perish--- you have everlasting life--- Jesus Himself says so. You have passed from eternal death to life--- and that stands firm-- even when you're not feeling saved or depressed about your spiritual walk. Remember, God designed your "feelings" to follow your intellect/mind just like a caboose follows the train. If you let your feelings come first-- you're out of whack with the caboose up front. Take charge of your thinking and believe what God says. Make your feelings follow your mind-- and not the other way around. If God says your sins are forgiven---- they are forgiven. Case closed.

Witness #2--- His Holy Spirit Within You. (Internal) When we believe on Christ, God the Holy Spirit comes to take up residence in our hearts. His indwelling presence not only becomes the "guarantee" of our salvation (Eph. 1:13-14)--- the Holy Spirit also confirms to our hearts that we really do belong to God (Rom. 8:16). HOWEVER--- when a believer is not walking rightly-- when he/she is making poor decisions and getting involved in various sins and living with one foot in the world----- the Holy Spirit's joyful influence begins to dim-- and that believer starts to struggle and feel discouraged. This doesn't mean they're not saved-- it just means they are quenching the Spirit's influence.

Imagine me trying to get a blazing campfire going-- but every minute Walker comes up and pours a bucket of water on my efforts--- soon enough the flames start to die down and I get discouraged---and COLD! Its the same thing with our hearts. The more sin and worldliness we engage in-- the more those sins put out our spiritual fire. That's why 1 Thess. 5:19 tells us not to "quench" the Spirit in our lives. If you keep quenching the Spirit, pretty soon you will feel like giving up-- and you'll think that Christian growth and joy is hopeless.

So if you want to get the flames going again--- stop pouring water on your own fire. Examine yourself and see where you are not living/walking by the Spirit. Is there some sin you won't give up? Are you living no differently than the world? If so, pray for forgiveness for those sinful areas-- and then leave them behind once and for all. That is true repentance-- not just saying "Sorry, Lord" but not going that way again. You'll discover that with each passing day as you make wise decisions, fill your mind with Scripture, pray, and live a Spirit-controlled life-- your spiritual fire will begin to grow larger and larger---- and your downward spiral will come to an end.

Just remember that you're not alone-- every Christian has ups and downs on the journey-- and we all have to keep fighting against unbelief and doubt and sin---- even me! I'm convinced most of us already have a pretty good idea about the answer to our problem-- we just need to DO what we KNOW.

Michael Jordan: A Lesson In Not Finishing Well

2009-09-21T15:00:00.003-05:00

Every since I could remember, Michael Jordan has been my favorite basketball player. The tongue--the shoes-- the baggy shorts-- the dunks-- Michael had it all. I watched his games and wore his jersey. But my appreciation for Michael Jordan died when he gave his Hall of Fame induction speech.

In what should have been a time of reflection and appreciation for all those who helped make his journey possible---Jordan instead chose to make his induction speech a self-centered, egotistical gripe-fest. It was an embarrassment.

Christians and non-Christians alike were simply flabbergasted that this man-- called the greatest basketball player of all time--- could put on such a disgusting display of self in a precious moment normally defined by intense gratitude and sincere humility.

After Michael's disgusting speech was digested by the watching world-- two articles caught my attention and both were very well written from their various perspectives.

From the secular sports-world's perspective--- read the article written by ESPN's Rick Reilly.

Then from a distinctively Christian's perspective--- consider the article by Voddie Baucham who contrasts Michael's speech with David Robinson's--- a believer who was also inducted into the Hall on the same night.

When he was still lacing them up, Michael Jordan was known for his incredible ability to "close-out" the most important games for his team to win. But this time, he was the loser--- and he has no one to blame but himself.

Even The Best Churches Have Problems

2009-09-19T11:10:00.010-05:00

Sometimes those of us who attend and minister at smaller churches look at larger churches with longing desire. We are envious (in a good way) of their massive properties, extensive ministries, big budgets, large staff, and multiple platforms of reaching people with the good news of Christ.

However, what we so often forget is that regardless of a church's size-- the church is not a building, but people. And when you have imperfect people, conflict is possible.

For the last fifty years, Coral Ridge Presbyterian Church has been a beacon for the gospel in South Florida under the leadership of D. James Kennedy. Many of you know he died in 2007, and his successor Tullian Tchividjian has not had an easy transition. Although Pastor Tchividjian was elected with an overwhelming 92% approval at Easter this year--- apparently things have soured since.

This church's battles over traditions, preferences, and methodology have caused such a wave of unrest in the church that it has come under the spotlight of national media. Tomorrow (Sept. 20) the congregation of Coral Ridge is scheduled to meet and vote on the future of their newly-called pastor.

I invite you to read the news story from The Christian Post, as well as the one from the Associated Press --- and then take time to pray for this congregation of your brothers and sisters in Christ. Tomorrow is a big day for them, and the world is watching.

* Update Sunday Night: CRPC had a closed door meeting this morning at 11am and voted to keep Pastor Tchividjian ---69% positive vote. If you would like to read the most updated news from today's vote, the story appears here.

I Love This Story

2009-09-18T10:07:00.003-05:00

If you didn't see this story from Tuesday night's Philadelphia Phillies game, you need to. What a wonderful real-life illustration of loving, tender grace poured out instead of reprimand or punishment.

Every parent can relate to this event, but every Christian can too. We have a loving Heavenly Father who knows our weaknesses and our failures, and showers us with tender grace.

Enjoy your weekend.

Defending Dogs but Harming Humans

2009-09-16T11:50:00.004-05:00

In today's post over at the Desiring God blog, Pastor John Piper makes a very interesting plea for protecting the unborn. In light of the recent outrage over the Michael Vick dog-fighting case in Virginia, Piper's question raises a very powerful point.

Take a moment and read his post. Then continue to pray and take action to protect human beings in the womb.

10 Reasons to Pray for Your Pastor (Part Two)

2009-09-15T09:37:00.013-05:00

In Part One of this two-part post, I tried to show that while most Christians love and appreciate their pastor, few genuinely understand the formidable weight of his task. Any pastor truly called of God will be quick to point to the blessings and the joys that come with his calling, yet at the same time he would not deny the tremendous burdens that come with pastoral leadership. With that in mind, here are the final five reasons why you should pray fervently for your pastor:

6. He is leading a completely volunteer army. The church of Jesus Christ is the largest army in the world-- yet it is made up entirely of volunteers who come, go, and serve as they please. Can you imagine being a sergeant or a captain with orders in hand to capture a fort or take a hill, and the soldiers under your command refuse to pick up their weapons and fight? If they are all volunteers-- what recourse do you have if they will not follow your lead? This is the great challenge facing many pastors in America today. One of my seminary professors once quipped that leading a congregation is "like trying to herd cats". There's a lot of truth to that. Today's congregations are busier than ever, have more distractions than ever, and are more consumer-minded than ever. The reality of 21st century Christianity is that many people coming through the church doors on a weekly basis are not looking "to serve" but rather "to be served". Your pastor faces the immense challenge of getting Christian-soldiers out of their bunks and into the battle, so pray for him.

7. He is being watched with eagle-eyes. In years gone by, the local church pastor held one of the most esteemed offices in his local community. He was honored, respected, held in high regard, and was perceived as a man of unflappable integrity. Those days are long gone. With every new scandal (i.e. priestly abuses, Ted Haggard's sexual trysts, etc.) making headlines, pastors are viewed with ever-increasing skepticism. When a man in ministry falters or falls, the world scoffs and says "See, he's no different than me. That Jesus-Bible-gospel stuff is just a sham." In today's world, the stakes couldn't be higher for your pastor to live out a godly life and winsome testimony before a watching world. In addition to that, his entire family lives under the microscope of the whole church-- where their cars, clothes, haircuts, and expenditures are often the central topics of conversation around many Sunday dinner tables. So when you pray for your pastor, ask God to help him remain above reproach and 'blameless' (1 Tim. 3:2). Pray that he will live so as to please Christ and not men--- be it outside or inside the church.

8. He is at war with 'professionalism'. One of the most subtle and dangerous enemies that threatens your pastor on a weekly basis is 'professionalism'. This is the mindset which approaches the gospel ministry from a cold, calloused, or impersonal perspective--- as if it were no different than any other menial task. In other words, when a pastor goes about his daily work because he "has to" rather than because he "wants to", the sinister, Spirit-quenching monster of professionalism is nipping at his heels. Prayer, Bible study, sermon preparation, counseling, visitation, studying and teaching--- all of these essential tasks which God assigns the minister can quickly become impersonal and flesh-driven if he does not guard his heart and continually ask the Holy Spirit to fan the flames of his ministry fire. Your pastor may wear a suit and tie, but he is no professional. He is a clay-pot that carries the gospel treasure (2 Cor. 4:7) showing that the power is all of God. He carries in his own body the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus might be manifested to all (2 Cor. 4:9-11). Even as you read these words, your pastor is somewhere doing battle with the monster of professionalism. Pray for him to win the victory.

9. He is a winner and a loser...often at the same time. Every single week your pastor makes decisions that affect people. That's an inescapable part of being a leader. Sometimes these decisions are minor and inconsequential-- like the temperature of the auditorium on Sunday morning (OK, that's not so inconsequential in some churches, I admit). But in some cases these decisions are much more serious-- like the decision to divide a popular small group, the decision to end a fledgling ministry, or the decision to move forward with necessary church discipline. The point is that with every decision or action a pastor makes, there are going to be those who disagree with it. For those who appreciate his lengthy sermon, there are those who want it shorter. If too many praise choruses are used in worship, those who love traditional hymns will be sure to voice their concern (and vice-versa). When I first became a pastor, I remember waiting three Sundays before contacting an absentee family. When I spoke with the husband, he was angry that I waited three weeks to call. "Don't you care about us?", he raged. That same week, I contacted another three-Sunday absentee family, and again I was on the receiving end of an outburst---but for a different reason. This time the husband scolded me: "Pastor, we've only been gone three Sundays! Can't we take a vacation without you checking up on us?" Sometimes your pastor can't win for losing, so pray for him. Much of his ministry life is spent somewhere between the rock and the hard place.

10. He is always preparing for Sunday. According to the famous Greek legend, as punishment for defying the gods, Sisyphus was sentenced to the eternal anguish of pushing a large stone up an enormous hill only to have it roll back down just as it reached the summit. This is one Greek legend every pastor can relate to. Preaching is a wonderful privilege and a glorious task, but the truth is that preparing for weekly preaching is a laborious challenge. Even veterans of pastor ministry will tell you that preparing for weekly preaching takes tremendous mental discipline, study, thought, and prayer. While he may sleep fitfully on Sunday night following a profitable day of sermon delivery-- your pastor's rock is waiting for him there at the bottom of the hill on Monday morning. Counseling, funerals, visitations, hospital calls, emergency situations--- regardless of what happens throughout his week--- Sunday is still coming and he has to be ready. So won't you pray for him? Pray that God would assist him in keeping his priorities in order, and that he won't be tyrannized or sidetracked by unimportant things.

These ten areas are just a few of the challenges that your shepherd faces each week, and why he should be a part of your daily prayer life. I could certainly say much more about why you should pray for your pastor.

But Sunday's coming, and my rock needs pushing.

10 Reasons to Pray for Your Pastor (Part One)

2009-09-09T16:22:00.012-05:00

There is nothing else in the world like full-time gospel ministry. Serving Jesus the Great Shepherd as one of His appointed under-shepherds is a precious privilege. Martyn Lloyd-Jones once famous declared that pastoring, and in particular, preaching---- "is the highest and greatest and the most glorious calling to which anyone can ever be called" (Preaching and Preachers, 1971, page 9). I agree heartily with that sentiment.

However, Lloyd-Jones also understood from first-hand experience exactly what any real-life shepherd will tell you---that taking care of sheep means getting your hands dirty. I have shared with people on occasion that some of my greatest joys and most soul-wrenching discouragements over the last decade have come while serving in the ministry. With these thoughts in view, here are the first five reasons why you should pray earnestly for your pastor.

1. He is never off-duty. Your pastor does not punch a time-clock or fill out a time sheet. His day doesn't end when the clock strikes 5 o'clock or reaches 40 hours for the week. He is always on. Nights, weekends, holidays, even on his day off or in the middle of his dinner-- the pastor is on call. You may not realize it, but some of his people keep him on speed-dial and they're not afraid to call or text day or night about some pressing issue. Can you imagine being called out and away from your family on Christmas? My mentor was on one memorable occasion. Knowing this, pray that God will give your pastor strength and endurance for his unrelenting schedule.

2. He is just a man. Even though he looks like a super-hero standing up in the pulpit---with a voice more powerful than a locomotive---able to explain theology in a single bound--- the pastor is still just a man. He isn't super-human. He has bills, car repairs, and a mortgage just like you do. There are days when he is tired, worn down, grouchy, or just plain discouraged. Sometimes this discouragement persists because unlike other careers, he can't blame the boss or just "leave it at the office." A few years ago when I was walking in Wal-Mart, I bumped into a person from church and they were quite surprised to see me wearing shorts. They were so used to seeing me in a suit and tie-- they couldn't stop laughing. Of course, my legs were as white as a fish's underbelly--- but that's not the point. Never forget that your pastor is still a man--- a sinner redeemed by the blood of Christ. So pray for him-- that God would uphold him by His grace and keep him encouraged in the work of the gospel.

3. He is called to discern the worst issues. Sunday by Sunday when Christians gather for worship and fellowship, it is a sweet and smiling time. At first glance, it might seem like the pastor has a glamorous job. He gets to wear nice clothing, people listen intently when he talks, and he gets paid to study and teach the Scriptures. However, most people forget that in addition to feeding the flock-- the pastor is also called to shepherd the flock as well. On many occasions this is a tedious and soul-wrenching task that breaks the pastor's heart. Alcohol and substance abuse, pornography addiction, domestic violence, teenage rebellion, marital infidelity, unwed pregnancies, unchecked backsliding--- these are just a few of the issues your pastor is forced to deal with on a regular basis. When you come to church, you may indeed see many smiling faces and receive many hearty handshakes. But there is another side to humanity-- a side of sin and corruption--- and God has ordained that pastors bring His truth to every situation, no matter how heinous or tragic it may be. To do his task well your pastor needs the courage of Joshua, the patience of Moses, and the wisdom of Solomon-- so pray for him, believer.

4. He is on the front line of the battle. During the French and Indian War, Indian fighters made it a habit of targeting the British officers first. Since officers rode up front and led the rest of the soldiers into battle, they were the first ones in the cross-hairs of an enemy rifle. You might remember that Colonel George Washington famously escaped one of these attacks here in Pennsylvania with four bullet holes through his coat. Dear friend, be reminded today that your pastor is a unique officer in God's army, and as a spiritual leader he is the special target of Satan and his forces. He faces challenges, temptations, and trials that most rank-and-file Christians know nothing about. When a pastor falls into sin or succumbs to temptation, his ministerial effectiveness is quenched, the church is greatly wounded, the gospel falls into disrepute, and the army stops making spiritual progress. This is why your pastor needs all the prayer you can muster. Therefore, when you come before God's throne, entreat God to protect your pastor, shield him from Satan's darts, and keep him from sins which would decimate his ministry and devastate the church.

5. He carries the weightiest responsibilities. Many Christians take great delight in ribbing their pastor by saying that he only works for 30 minutes on Sundays. Others like to joke about how much time he spends on the golf course. I hope that if you are one of those Christians, this article will stir you to re-think such teasing. When we look carefully at the Scriptures and consider the calling of a man into pastoral ministry, it's certainly no laughing matter. While the pastorate surely is a joyful task, it is also a solemn one. Day by day your pastor is dealing with extremely weighty matters of truth and error--- righteousness and evil--- life and death--- heaven and hell. Every time he steps into the pulpit and opens the word of God, he is speaking to people who do not have tomorrow promised to them. Some of them know Christ, but many of them do not. Knowing that, your pastor faces a tremendous challenge of pouring out the Scriptures to a vast and varied audience-- and one day he will answer to the Lord Jesus for how well he did.

The Apostle Paul knew firsthand the serious nature of the gospel ministry and its eternal implications. He writes in 2 Cor. 15-17 "For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing, to one a fragrance from death to death, to the other a fragrance from life to life. Who is sufficient (competent) for these things? For we are not, like so many, peddlers of God's word, but as men of sincerity, as commissioned by God, in the sight of God we speak in Christ." (ESV) Like an ambassador sent to represent the interests of king and country in a foreign land, your pastor has been commissioned by Heaven--- to hold forth the word of God and seek to advance the eternal Kingdom of Christ. He's heard your joke before-- and it probably will make him smile again. But what he needs more than anything is the assurance of your earnest prayers. Never forget that the seriousness of his calling is matched only by the weight of his responsibilities.

A Trip in the Way-Back Machine

2009-09-07T17:09:00.004-05:00

When I graduated from college in 1998, the words "Blogger", "MySpace", "YouTube" and "Facebook" meant nothing to me. However, over the last decade these websites have become media giants and an everyday part of our lives. To what extent they should be used by the church for kingdom ministry--- I'll let you decide.

Kudos to Justin Taylor over at Between Two Worlds for linking to this page from The Telegraph, London. This article was an awesome trip in the way-back machine-- to see what some of these website giants looked like in their early days.

Next time some kool-aid drinking Apple-ite tries to tell you how "hip" Apple is while they're typing on their MacBook and sipping a carmel macchioto--- just remind them of the early apple.com. Hilarious!

Happy Labor Day.

A Mere Coincidence? Tornado Strikes Minneapolis

2009-08-21T11:13:00.005-05:00

On Wednesday of this week, a vicious tornado ripped through the downtown of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Weather forecasters and expert meteorologists were stunned by this because they were not forecasting any kind of severe weather. This tornado popped up seemingly "out of nowhere".

Now here comes the interesting part. Wednesday just happened to be the day the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America was holding their national convention in the Minneapolis Convention Center. One of their main topics of discussion that day? Whether or not to endorse homosexuality amongst ELCA clergy--- in other words, does the practice of homosexuality disqualify a person from serving in pastoral ministry?

What would you say about this interesting turn of Providence? How might you interpret it? Is this just an freak accident-- a mere coincidence-- a weird meteorological anomaly?

I thought John Piper's answer was very lucid and worth reading.

Next Youth Group Activity

2009-08-14T08:56:00.003-05:00

I'm headed out this afternoon for an overnight trip with our teens on the Applachian Trail. Praise God the weather looks superb and I've got seasoned pork chops to cook over the fire. It should be a great time!

For the next youth activity, I'm going to suggest this---- Extreme Pool Jumping:

Extreme Pool Jump - The funniest home videos are here

OK, People... Back to Work!

2009-08-10T18:43:00.011-05:00

My two-week summer vacation just concluded and it was a great time to step back from the busyness of full-time ministry and give my fullest attention to my wife and children.

When you are a pastor who "lives, eats, and breathes" full-time ministry and the church of Jesus Christ pretty-much around the clock, it takes time both to unplug and plug back in to ministry labors. In the last ten years of ministry service, I've discovered that it takes me about 4 days to stop thinking about "church stuff"-- and at least as many days to get plugged back in.

Now that I'm settling back in to my regular routine, I thought I would give a few highlights of our summer vacation. Here are a few pictures from our 2009 adventures which included Baltimore's Inner Harbor, the new Yankee Stadium, and the battlefields at Gettysburg.

What Makes A Good Preacher?

2009-07-13T12:02:00.004-05:00

"A good preacher should have these properties and virtues: first, to teach systematically; secondly, he should have a ready wit; thirdly, he should be eloquent; fourthly, he should have a good voice; fifthly, a good memory; sixthly, he should know when to make an end; seventhly, he should be sure of his doctrine; eighthly, he should venture and engage body and blood, wealth and honor, in the Word; ninthly, he should suffer himself to be mocked and jeered of everyone."

-Martin Luther, Tabletalk, #397 'Of Preachers and Preaching'

Is the End of Evangelicalism Near?

2009-07-08T08:45:00.003-05:00

In a re-posting of an excellent article from 2004, Dr. Albert Mohler discusses the current state of evangelicalism and asks a very important question about today's Christians:

Will this present generation--with its pension for political correctness, false gospel of health and wealth, and unwillingness to declare Jesus the only way to heaven-- be the death knell for evangelicalism?

Did They Think It Would Happen Today?

2009-07-06T20:03:00.021-05:00

Ed McMahon, June 23rd

Farah Fawcett, June 25th

Michael Jackson, June 25th

Billy Mays, June 28th

Steve McNair, July 4th

"As for man, his days are like grass, he flourishes like a flower of the field; the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more." Psalm 103:15 NIV

Dear friend, do you realize how truly fragile human life is---how our lives pass like the flowers of the field? Do you really comprehend the certainty of death--- and that it comes when least expected?

What about you? Have you stopped to consider where you will spend eternity? What if it comes...today?

You're Not On Vacation From God

2009-07-01T13:40:00.004-05:00

I know. It's absurd to think that God takes any time off, even for a moment. But while we snicker at such a thought, the real-life tragedy is that many Christians do use the "summer months" as an excuse to take a vacation from God-- be it church attendance or ministry involvement.

For too many Christians the beach, the ball field, or the backyard barbecue become greater treasures than Jesus Christ. While the sun blazes hottest in June, July, and August--- many Christians permit their hearts to grow their coldest.

What about you, dear reader? Have you been on vacation from God this summer? How is your church attendance? Are you still involved in ministry? Are you demonstrating with your summer schedule that your greatest treasure and deepest love is still Jesus Christ?

How would things go in the world if Almighty God followed your example this summer?

John Calvin's 500th Birthday

2009-06-24T09:57:00.006-05:00

Next month marks the 500th birthday of one of the most important and most influential men in the history of Christianity: John Calvin. Love him or hate him (and shame on you if you hate him), John Calvin was used mightily by God in helping to solidify and systematize all of the biblical truths that were fought for and recovered during the 16th century Protestant Reformation.

If Martin Luther can be compared to a courageous point-man who pushes the front lines forward with zeal and boldness while shooting in every direction, then John Calvin can be compared to the brilliant field-general who comes behind and

strategizes the battle plan, organizes it on paper, and articulates it to the commanders so the army can march forward in strength.

Calvin's magnus opus "Institutes of the Christian Religion" was a detailed and powerful organization of the dynamic biblical truths that marked the Protestant Reformation and formed the long-standing theological groundwork for the advancing of Protestantism. The Church of England's Thirty-Nine Articles as well as the Westminster Confession of Faith (and thus the London Baptist Confession of Faith, 1689 as well) all find their theological pedigree in the scholarly work of Calvin's Institutes, which he spent his entire lifetime revising and refining.

Since this is the 500th anniversary of Calvin's birth, I invite you to spend some time acquainting yourself with this hero of the faith. A great place to begin would be to download (for FREE) T.H.L. Parker's short 128-page biography "Portrait of Calvin" which is being re-printed this year and made available as a free download from John Piper's ministry Desiring God.

In this brief video below John Piper summarizes the powerful impact of Calvin's life and why he is being heralded in a national conference:

I Woke Up Nervous That Day

2009-06-18T09:45:00.003-05:00

Fifteen years ago today (June 18), I woke up with a racing mind and a heart full of nerves. It was my wedding day, and I couldn't believe it had finally arrived. This beautiful girl from Oil City, PA was going to be my bride in just a few hours and I couldn't wait. This was really happening! The anticipation was unbelievable. I still remember ten minutes before the ceremony began, my palms were sweaty and my knees were trembling. In a small room behind the piano Pastor Dave Childs wanted to pray with me. YES, please pray, brother!

Well, here I am--- fifteen years later--- with a wife, four children, a mortgage, and a full-time ministry---and I wouldn't change it for the world. I praise God for such a wonderful wife and that we are enjoying a happy and fulfilling marriage marked by intimacy, love, forgiveness, and team-work.

Thank you, Lord. It's by your grace and help that this marriage stands strong and for the testimony of Jesus Christ. This wonderful woman You gave me is the ultimate crown (Prov. 12:4) and her worth is far above rubies (Prov. 31:10). I have found such a good thing and obtained Your great favor (Prov. 18:22).

Happy anniversary, Heather! I love you!

Proverbs 16:18

2009-06-08T08:07:00.000-05:00

Twittering in Church: Knock It Off

2009-06-03T07:55:00.007-05:00

Twitter is all the rage right now, as it seems almost everyone (celebrities, NBA athletes, even TV shows) has one of the "micro-blogging" websites where the owner can post short sentences and quickly provide updates to the ongoing question, "What are you doing right now?"

I certainly have no problem with Twitter--- but Twittering in church? Not good.

Last month Time Magazine.com ran an article describing the growing phenomenon of Twittering in church---- not only with congregation members keystroking during the middle of the service--- but some churches even embracing Twitter to the point of broadcasting "tweets" on video screens for everyone to read during the pastor's sermon. (Wince) Here's a video describing the Twitter promotion taking place at Mars Hill Church, Seattle.

Listen, people. Twitter is cool. We get it. But twittering in church is over the line.

When the Word of God is being explained and applied, that is the time to give your ultimate focus to what you are hearing from the inspired Scriptures--- not dividing your attention between the keynote speaker in front of you and the keystrokes coming from your fingers.

The issue here isn't your tweets, per say. Your heartfelt statements, questions, updates, thoughts, feelings, surely do have value-- but in another setting where that kind of dialogue is appropriate.

Remember, coming to church and worshipping God is about God--- His truth, His greatness, His Word, and His supremacy --- its not about you. It's about Him speaking and you being quiet---you humbly submitting to His communication. The bottom line is you can't possibly hear when your heart is bent on being heard.

So for all you Twitter people out there keystroking in the pews---enough is enough already. We forgive you. Now put your keyboard away.

"Be still, and know that I am God..." Psalm 46:10

Ryan with Alistair Begg

2009-06-03T07:35:00.002-05:00

Last week I attended the Banner of Truth Ministers Conference on the campus of Messiah College just south of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. The main speaker at the evening sessions was Alistair Begg from Parkside Church in Cleveland, Ohio. His sermons are also heard nationwide on his radio broadcast "Truth for Life". He is an excellent teacher, and possesses a keen sense of humor and delightful Scottish accent. His two conference messages on 'Persuasive Preaching' were excellent and a great reminder of the preacher's task. Alistair was very gracious and we had this picture taken on Wednesday morning of the conference.

Bible Study Outrage in San Diego

2009-05-28T18:43:00.005-05:00

I just returned home from the 2009 Banner of Truth Ministers Conference in Grantham, PA on the campus of Messiah College. It was a great time and it was exciting to see some familiar faces and good friends in the ministry. We share a camaraderie and common bond as brothers called out to shepherd the flock of God.

After such an enjoyable few days away from the daily grind (disconnected from the computer I might add) you can imagine my shock when I saw this article posted at Fox News today reporting that the city of San Diego is prohibiting a pastor and his wife from using their home to host a small group Bible study. Just the most recent installment from the "You've Got To Be Kidding Me" department.

Read the article and spread the word. Let's keep our eye on this together.

Having Computer Problems? Don't Ask An Astronaut to Help

2009-05-23T07:41:00.003-05:00

After having gone a few rounds with my new computer and its Vista operating system, I chuckled this morning when I saw that NASA astronauts weren't able to get their laptops to play DVD movies aboard the Space Shuttle Atlantis. You can read what happened in this article from yesterday.

It seems even the most brilliant people in the world, who have the intelligence and NASA training to repair a multi-million dollar space telescope, still have trouble with their technology on occasion. Even with the best and brightest minds working on it for more than an hour, they still couldn't get it to work.

Yes, I'm smiling right now.

Hey Christian! You're Not A Spectator

2009-05-21T07:39:00.010-05:00

This year I am celebrating my tenth year in the ministry, and believe it or not, the hardest thing about the ministry for me is not the preaching, the long hours, or the counseling--- it's trying to help 21st century Christians understand that they are not spectators.

You see, everywhere we go today in America we live as spectators and consumers. When we step into the Mall, it exists to serve us and we go and do as we please. When we sit at the table at Applebee's, we expect to be served and we order what we like. When we sit in the stands at a sporting event, the event unfolds before our eyes and we know we are there to watch. Drugstores, doctor's offices, auto mechanic shops, grocery stores, insurance agencies--- they all exist to serve us--- and we see our role as consumers. Non-participants. Spectators.

But for the Christian believer, when it comes to the realm and sphere of a local church assembly, the Bible expressly says that individual is not a spectator--- but a servant. In the Body of Christ, there are no passive consumers because every Christian is called to be an active producer. A contributor. A worker.

With that biblical viewpoint much on my mind this year, that is why this recent ministry article by John MacArthur struck such a chord with me.

When consumerism affects America--- the economy flourishes and our nation advances. But when consumerism infects the church--- the cause of Jesus Christ flounders and the church loses ground.

O God, please help me be one of the godly pastors of this generation who helps to slay Christian "consumerism" once and for all. Let me boldly declare that the Body of Christ does not exist for leisure--- but labor. Amen.

No, Mr. President

2009-05-18T08:02:00.005-05:00

Yesterday in the midst of heated debate and vocal protest, President Obama made his much-publicized appearance at the University of Notre Dame for the purpose of delivering the 2009 commencement address.

Over the last many weeks, many Catholics have been angered and many Notre Dame alumni and supporters have been outraged that a Catholic university with a rigid pro-life stance would invite a pro-choice abortion advocate to speak at graduation---- especially one like President Obama who is actively redrawing the lines and relaxing standards regarding human life issues.

As Obama spoke to the crowd of more than 12,000 people, he delivered an address in which he called for more understanding and more dialogue in the abortion debate. Even when three protesters interrupted his remarks with shouts of "Stop killing our children!", the president continued on unfazed.

But while President Obama continues to plead for patience, tolerance, and dialogue---- the killing of innocent millions is not something that should be up for debate. And that is why I heartily agree with John Piper in saying, "No, Mr. President".

Basketball Magic Strikes Again

2009-05-14T09:06:00.005-05:00

Many of you will remember the legendary true story of Jason McElwain, the high school basketball manager with autism who finally got a chance on the court.... and magic happened. In the night of his life, Jason scored 20 points in four minutes.

Well, following in Jason's footsteps, two more magical moments happened when Patrick Thibodeau and Josh Titus--- two more high school basketball managers with special needs--- got their chance on the court this past season.

When I watched this video, I wept. Then I watched it again, and wept--- again.

Thank you CBS Sports for airing this video during this year's Final Four. This is what makes basketball and other sports so special. You just never know when you're in for something magical.

Hubble: Face to Face With God's Glory

2009-05-12T13:31:00.015-05:00

Yesterday at 2pm, the Space Shuttle Atlantis lifted off on a mission to upgrade the Hubble Space Telescope, which rides at some 300 miles above the earth and peers into the deepest recesses of the universe.

You might remember that following its launch back in 1990, the Hubble was infamously ridiculed and labeled a bust after it was discovered that its primary lens was distorted. Its first pictures were so blurry and out of focus, it looked like the images were taken through a pair of grandma's old Coke-bottle spectacles.

Thankfully though, following NASA's mission to correct the telescope's primary mirror optics, Hubble finally came into its own--- and wow, what glories have been unveiled.

God's glory, that is.

You see, while secular scientists and humanistic astronomers study the treasures of space in hopes of unlocking the secrets of the Universe and the dawn of time, all the while denying the existence of God--- what these heavenly bodies ultimately reveal is not the absence of God but His undeniable presence and the evidence of His majestic glory in creation.

As the Psalmist says, "The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard." (Psalm 19:1-3 NIV)

How ironic that the very tool these unbelieving scientists and astronomers have used to rail against God, is the very tool that has presents the most incredible proofs of His reality and power!

While we look at pictures like these and marvel at the grandeur and majesty and glory of God the Creator, it shouldn't surprise us that so many skeptics continue to cover their eyes, plug their ears, say "There is no God", and insist that the Universe appeared in a giant explosion 14 billion years ago.

Paul explained this ongoing phenomenon in the hearts of sinful men in the first chapter of Romans:

"The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of men who suppress the truth by their wickedness, since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them.

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that men are without excuse.

For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. Although they claimed to be wise, they became fools..." (Rom. 1:18-22 NIV)

The bottom line is that while skeptics will continue to use Hubble in protest against God, we can use it as a platform for worshipping Him. The universe really does declare His majesty.

We can only hope that with Hubble's upgrade, more awe-inspiring pictures like these will come before our eyes in future days, continuing to display the unfathomable glory of the God who spoke all these heavenly wonders into existence.

Make no mistake. Face to face with Hubble's history-making photos, only "the fool says in his heart 'There is no God'." (Psalm 53:1)

Front Page News! Celebrating Fifty Years

2009-05-04T10:01:00.004-05:00

Its been more than two weeks since I last posted something current here at Light and Heat, but this post will help to explain why.

Over the last year my church has excitedly been making special plans and preparations for its 50th anniversary, and this weekend was the culmination of those celebration plans. On Saturday night we had a fantastic anniversary banquet, and on Sunday morning we had a special 90-minute celebration service featuring inspiring singing, special recognitions and commendations, and two guest preachers.

The last two weeks have been a blur, as I have had to pull together all the final pieces of the Anniversary weekend---- in addition to all my regular preaching and shepherding responsibilities.

We were excited to learn that the local Standard Speaker newspaper was going to write a short article about our weekend, but you can imagine my shock this morning to discover that we were the front page feature article!

I invite you to check out the article as it is posted on today's Standard Speaker website.

Our weekend's theme was "Great Is Thy Faithfulness", and I'm so thankful that all the praise, honor, and glory was ultimately directed where it belongs: to the sustaining grace of God and the glory of our Savior Jesus Christ.

Lesson Learned: God Never Fails

2009-04-15T09:32:00.008-05:00

Over the last two weeks, I have experienced both the joys and the frustrations of setting up a new computer here in my study. My former desktop was over six years old and was beginning to have some component breakdowns in recent months, so it was time for an upgrade.

My new Dell computer is extremely powerful and fast, and has the most unbelievably bright wide screen monitor. For that I'm very grateful. Unfortunately, the operating system on my new machine is Windows Vista, and it has not been very cooperative.

Even after a host of help menus and Google searches, I'm still struggling to get it connected to our network office printer. And on top of that, I just learned yesterday that HP decided not to provide the Vista drivers for my HP Scanner. Ugh. Headaches and more headaches.

As I continued to battle technology this morning, I was struck with the blessed reminder that God never fails. Never breaks down. Never needs updating. Never leaves you frustrated...or hanging. Never makes you pay for His assistance. No--- His rate of perfection remains eternally unchanging at 100%. He is an unchanging, unfailing God.

"For I, the LORD, do not change..." Malachi 3:6 NASB

"Every good thing given and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shifting shadow." James 1:17 NASB

When everything is shifting underneath your feet (or in this case, fingers), what a blessed opportunity to stop and consider the things that never change--- those things you can always count on. Surely, the LORD God is the greatest unchangeable in the Universe.

Thank you Lord, for being such a wonderful, unchanging God. You are the same yesterday, today, and forever. May this uncooperative, expensive metal box be the stepping stone for me to draw closer to you and wonder at Your immutable character.

The ABC's of Bad Christian Parenting: Part Three

2009-04-01T07:23:00.008-05:00

In this series of posts, we've been taking a closer look at the tragic mistakes Eli made in raising his sons, and the results of his failure to take a hands-on approach regarding their spiritual life. In part one, we learned that parents simply cannot assume their children will be spiritual, as if spiritual life is passed on like hair or eye color. In part two, we discovered that training up our children in the nurture and admonition of the LORD is a task that requires an active approach. If you aim at nothing, you'll be certain to hit it every time. That is why we must make it our goal to actively shape our children's spiritual life.

But here is a third mistake often made by Christian parents, one that can bring years of anguish to both child and parent:

C: Condone your children’s behavior to avoid controversy.

This parent foolishly thinks, “These problems will probably go away on their own. Besides, if I confront my child on his failures and sins—I’ll be forced to face my own.”

"Why do you kick at My sacrifice and My offering which I have commanded in My dwelling place, and honor your sons more than Me... (1 Sam. 2:29) For I have told him that I will judge his house forever for he iniquity which he knows, because his sons made themselves vile, and he did not restrain them." (1 Sam. 3:13)

Many questions surface as to why Eli didn’t take action in the midst of his sons’ wickedness. Perhaps Eli didn’t take more serious action because he was worried about the consequences. If his sons were blaspheming God, under Old Testament law they should have been stoned. Maybe he thought this was just a phase they were going through and perhaps the problem might go away on its own.

However, we see that God was not happy with Eli’s lay-low strategy. God spoke to Eli by the mouth of a prophet and rebuked him for condoning the ongoing sins of his sons. God was angry that Eli had shown preference for his sons above the Lord. Because of this sin on the part of Eli and his sons, God could not bless them—the sons were ultimately judged with death—and the priesthood was removed from the house of Eli forever.

What a reminder to us that sin is like a dandelion weed. If you ignore it and let it linger long enough—it will soon spread and contaminate the entire lawn. The point is when we see issues in the lives of our children that need to be addressed, we need to have enough moral courage to confront them in a loving but truthful way before it spreads and causes even more trouble.

If your child is going down a dangerous road, don’t just ignore it or think it will work itself out—ask the LORD for courage and seek to deal with it in a biblical way. But know this: if you’re going to deal with your child you better get ready to look in the mirror because our kids have highly attuned hypocrisy antennas. If you’re going to come to them with a spiritual issue your own life better be right before the LORD.

The ABC's of Bad Christian Parenting: Part Two

2009-03-27T07:23:00.006-05:00

In this series of posts, we are discussing tragic mistakes that are often made by Christian parents in child-raising. In part one, we discovered that a common mistake made by many Christian parents is the assumption that their children will be spiritual by proxy. But here is a second common mistake many parents make in the realm of child-rearing ABC's:

B: Believe that your children will figure out spiritual things on their own.

This parent foolishly thinks, “I don’t want to force spiritual things or Christian living on my kids. I want them to come to it on their own.”

"Therefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD, for men abhorred the offering of the LORD... So he [Eli] said to them, 'Why do you do such things? For I hear of your evil dealings from all the people. No, my sons! For it is not a good report I hear..." 1 Samuel 2:17, 22-24a NKJV

Some might say that Eli gave a stern lecture to his sons in 1:22-25, but the truth is his words were a poor substitute for action. His sons were making a mockery of everything the priesthood of Israel was supposed to stand for. Certainly, with all that was going on Eli should have taken a more hands-on approach--- a more active role in insisting that his sons behave honorably as God-followers and as spiritual leaders.

As a pastor for the last ten years, I can’t tell you how many times I have heard a Christian parent say that they didn’t want to force spiritual things on their children. These are the parents who let their kids decide whether or not they want to attend worship services, go to Sunday school classes, or participate in youth group activities.

Listen, Dad and Moms—when your kids are living under your roof you are responsible for their welfare--- not just their food and their clothes and their shelter—but for their spiritual welfare as well! You make your kids brush their teeth, don’t you? You make them take showers and go to school and do their homework, don’t you? Why? Because you know that tremendous things are at stake in those matters! They might not want to brush their teeth, but not brushing teeth makes them go rotten and fall out—and there’s no going back!

The same principle applies with our kids and spiritual things. The Bible says plainly that spirituality in your children’s lives is not just theirs to choose—but yours to impart! Prov. 22:6 doesn’t say “Sit back and let your child choose the way he should go”—it says “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”

We have a solemn responsibility to impart spiritual training to our children. We train them on how to take a shower, we train them on how to brush their teeth, and we must train them on how to obey and walk with God. If you think your children are going to come to it naturally on their own---not only are you ignorant of what the Bible says about the human heart, you are making a second tragic mistake when it comes to biblical parenting.

The ABC's of Bad Christian Parenting: Part One

2009-03-25T10:13:00.004-05:00

The Apostle Paul writes in 1 Cor. 10:11 that God has given us the Scriptures, especially the narratives of the Old Testament, so that we might look on them and learn. Paul says, “Now all these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition…”

As you and I open the pages of God’s word, not only do we find positive spiritual role models which we can emulate--- we also encounter individuals who had serious failures and mis-steps—and from them we can learn what dishonors the LORD—and what not to do when it comes to our spiritual lives.

In this series of blog posts I want to consider the life experience of a father who made some flawed decisions in his parenting strategy which cost him a dear price—not only in his own life, but in the lives of his two sons as well. That father’s name was Eli, and his story is found in 1 Samuel chapters 2-4.

Looking at the example of Eli, what could we say are the A-B-C’s of bad Christian parenting?

A: Assume that your children are spiritual by proxy. (2:12)
This parent foolishly thinks, “I am spiritual, so of course my children are too.”

"Now the sons of Eli were corrupt; they did not know the LORD." 1 Samuel 2:12 NKJV

Eli was a priest for the LORD in Shiloh, he was a spiritual leader for the nation of Israel. He and his sons were in full time ministry—yet the Bible says plainly that his sons were completely corrupt, worthless, wicked men. They were appropriating the people’s sacrifices for themselves and sleeping with women who worked as servants in the tabernacle. So here we have a perfect example of a father who was dedicated to serving the LORD, in worship, in prayer, in reading of Scripture—and his children were far from the LORD.

Friends, that’s a powerful reminder to us that just because we know Christ and are spiritually minded--- doesn’t mean our kids are. God does not do salvation by proxy. In other words, just because you go to church and read your Bible and pray—doesn’t automatically mean your kids are going to be spiritual. Every parent needs to remember that their kids are sinners, with sinful hearts at enmity with God according to Jer. 17:9, and unless they come to know Christ by grace through faith personally--- they are still under Satan’s domination and due to receive God’s wrath.

You and I have a tremendous obligation expose our children to the gospel, so that they personally might come to know Christ and begin that spiritual growth process for themselves. Now, can we save our kids? Can we force them to believe on Christ or live a righteous life? No. But we can realize our responsibility to expose them to Christ and the way of salvation. Parents who assume their children are spiritual by proxy, make a critical mistake that can bring a lifetime of tragic consequences.

NCAA Tournament: Philadelphia

2009-03-20T07:35:00.020-05:00

Late Wednesday night a local friend whose two boys I coached in rec-league basketball called to offer me four courtside tickets to the NCAA tournament in Philadelphia on Thursday. Since it was my day off, we took full advantage of these tickets... and we were not disappointed! Our seats were courtside---dead center--- fifth row. Wow. A college basketball fan's dream. Here are a few of my favorite pictures from yesterday plus a video:

Walker with ESPN/CBS Sports Jay Bilas.

Walker with Hall of Famer, Coach John Thompson

All in all, it was a great day-- and a chance to see my bracket picks advance in person!

The Destructive Power of Bitterness

2009-03-12T09:12:00.008-05:00

Tragedy struck Samson, Alabama this week when 28-year-old Michael McLendon snapped and went on a shooting rampage that ended the lives of ten people, five of whom were Michael's own family members. At the end Michael turned the gun on himself and became the tenth person to die that day from a mortal gunshot wound. In a small town of roughly 2,000 people, Michael's violent actions left most of the townspeople shocked and in stunned disbelief. Many are openly expressing their wonder at how such a seemingly "quiet" person could go off on such a rampage of terror.

The answer was soon revealed as investigators uncovered Michael's hand-written "hit list"-- spiral notebook pages filled with the names of people who he believed had wronged him in the past. The list included former employers as well as former and present co-workers whom Michael felt had treated him harshly and unfairly. Even though their names did not appear in the written revenge list, it is now apparent that many of Michael's own family members were on the unwritten list being kept in his mind. Now, two-hundred gunshots later and the fallout of the worst killing spree in Alabama history, people are desperate to for answers to the all-consuming "Why?" question.

To me, the answer to the "why" question is unveiled as we consider the destructive power of bitterness.

Without a doubt, as we trace back the root of these tragic slayings-- we arrive at the heart of a man consumed with bitterness and revenge. Like a boiler under intense heat, this intense bitterness toward others continued to build up pressure until it finally exploded from this man's life in heinous acts of violence. When an individual seethes in hidden anger, muses on hurts from others, and quietly nurses private grudges--- Scripture warns that trouble is on the horizon. Hebrews 12:15 makes the vital connection between the "root of bitterness" springing up and the "trouble" that surely follows. In this case from Alabama, it was physical-- but in many cases the damage and the trouble is often spiritual in nature.

Christians and churches are not exempt from this trouble, because examples abound of believers who-- while not resorting to a gun or physical violence--- have assaulted another family member of the Body of Christ with a verbal tirade or an unholy, accusing outburst. I'll never forget the meeting I attended some years ago when two Christian brothers got into a heated discussion--- and going on the attack one of the men pulled out a tattered notebook and began to regurgitate hurtful comments made by the other Christian man from nearly ten years earlier. I remember going home that night stunned at the depth of that Christian's root of bitterness against his brother, and sorrowful at a schism that was still unresolved.

That is why the New Testament is replete with instructions for believers to put away every form of bitterness-- and conquer pains, sins, and hurts inflicted by others with healthy doses of love, patience, longsuffering, and forgiveness. Paul says explicitly in Ephesians 4:31-32: "Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you." Colossians 3:13 says likewise, "...bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another, even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do."

Bitterness has incredible destructive power, and there's little doubt Satan knows this. He has been using this unstoppable force in the hearts of unbelievers for millennia, and many lives have been left in a wake of death because of it. This week's tragedy in Alabama is just another example of the power of sinful bitterness left unchecked and unrestrained.

Christian, do you have a list of people--- written or unwritten-- that you're harboring bitterness against? Are you nursing some secret grudge? Know the truth that bitterness eventually leads to destruction--- most often your own. Thanks be to God, that through the power of the transforming gospel, we have the ability to put aside bitterness and choose forgiveness instead.

When you consider the end results---- the choice is easy.

Sin...A Little Thing?

2009-03-11T08:01:00.005-05:00

"Beware of light thoughts of sin. At the time of conversion, the conscience is so tender, that we are afraid of the slightest sin. Young converts have a holy timidity, a godly fear lest they should offend against God. But alas! Very soon the fine bloom upon these first ripe fruits is removed by the rough handling of the surrounding world: the sensitive plant of young piety turns into a willow in after life, too pliant, too easily yielding.

It is sadly true, that even a Christian may grow by degrees so callous, that the sin which once startled him does not alarm him in the least. By degrees men get familiar with sin. The ear in which the cannon has been booming will not notice slight sounds. At first a little sin startles us; but soon we say, “Is it not a little one?”

Then there comes another, larger, and then another, until by degrees we begin to regard sin as but a little ill; and then follows an unholy presumption: “We have not fallen into open sin. True, we tripped a little, but we stood upright in the main. We may have uttered one unholy word, but as for the most of our conversation, it has been consistent.” So we palliate sin; we throw a cloak over it; we call it by dainty names.

Christian, beware how thou thinkest lightly of sin. Take heed lest thou fall by little and little. Sin, a little thing? Is it not a poison? Who knows its deadliness? Sin, a little thing? Do not the little foxes spoil the grapes? Doth not the tiny coral insect build a rock which wrecks a navy? Do not little strokes fell lofty oaks? Will not continual droppings wear away stones? Sin, a little thing? It girded the Redeemer’s head with thorns, and pierced his heart! It made him suffer anguish, bitterness, and woe.

Could you weigh the least sin in the scales of eternity, you would fly from it as from a serpent, and abhor the least appearance of evil. Look upon all sin as that which crucified the Saviour, and you will see it to be “exceeding sinful.”

Charles H. Spurgeon, "Morning and Evening" for today, March 11th AM.

One Trillion Dollars...A Visual

2009-03-08T21:36:00.003-05:00

Do you have trouble trying to visualize all the numbers being bantered about in these government "stimulus" packages? One million? One billion? How about one trillion?

Be sure to check out this site where the author-illustrator gives us an astounding visual of what one trillion dollars really looks like. It's mind-boggling.

Oh, and by the way: those are your dollars on display.

ESV Study Bible for Everyone

2009-03-04T10:24:00.007-05:00

On March 1, 2009, Crossway, the publishers of the #1 best-selling English Standard Version Study Bible, announced that they are making the ESV Online Study Bible free to anyone for a limited time.

Until now, you had to purchase a hard-copy of the ESV Study Bible to get access to the online version, which includes mp3 Bible audio, full-color maps and illustrations, excellent charts, thousands of explanatory study notes, and dozens of excellent articles on theology and Bible study.

If you have never "tasted" the ESV before, I invite you to visit this site and use it as part of your Bible reading, devotional study, or small-group preparation. You'll soon discover why the ESV Study Bible has skyrocketed to number one!

For full access and free trial use of these features for one month, visit www.esvstudybible.org/online. Simply create a login and password. Email information will not be shared, nor will there be any obligation to purchase. This free trial offer expires March 31, 2009.

Farmer Builds World-Class Model of Biblical Temple

2009-03-03T10:40:00.003-05:00

I came across this article in The Telegraph (UK) and was absolutely astounded at the craftsmanship this retired farmer has put into his model of the biblical temple--- over the last thirty years.

Read the article and be sure to view the slide show of pictures. You'll be amazed!

Have a great Tuesday. Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice!

The Pornification of a Culture...

2009-02-27T08:21:00.004-05:00

Be sure to read this informative article posted yesterday by Dr. Albert Mohler on the growing scourge of pornography in America.

I was shocked to learn that 70% of all pornography is being viewed between 9am-5pm....yes, work hours. In other words, the sins of sexual lusts that used to take place in people's homes are now taking place in the cubicle next to you, and even at your local library.

Without a doubt, pornography going "mainstream" is one of the contributing factors to America's rotting from within. As Christians we must always be vigilant to guard our hearts from lusts that can destroy us (Prov. 4:23).

What A Great Read!

2009-02-23T14:41:00.004-05:00

I'm reading a fantastic book right now and want to recommend it highly: George Whitefield, God's Anointed Servant in the Great Revival of the Eighteenth Century by Arnold A. Dallimore. Every night for the past week, I have looked forward to the quiet moments when I get to sit alone with this magnificent book.

Years ago, Dr. Arnold Dallimore wrote a landmark two-volume set on Whitefield which has become legendary in Christian circles. One pastor-friend told me last year that Dallimore's set on Whitefield was highly influential in his becoming a full-time minister--- and previous to that a seminary professor who visited my study commented that he regarded the Whitefield biography set to be the most important thing he has ever read (next to the Scriptures, of course).

Yet, while the material is excellent, many people simply cannot digest such enormous volumes. And so in 1990, Dr. Dallimore released a condensed one-volume edition which recounts many of the most important events of Whitefield's life, while remaining brief and readable in 200 pages.

Can you imagine a preacher being heard clearly from two miles away? Can you fathom a man preaching forty hours or more every single week....for nearly 30 years? Can you believe one man preached in person before nine-tenths of the population of the American colonies--- all before age fifty-five?

George Whitefield was that legendary preacher, and this book tells his story in marvelous fashion.

The Slow Death of Congregational Singing

2009-02-13T08:25:00.005-05:00

Many churches today are leaving congregational singing in the dust by completely eliminating it from their worship services. Other churches are unknowingly undercutting congregational singing by an over-powering 'worship band' who 'leads' at the front. Now, while I certainly take no issue with a variety of instruments, drums, or microphones in worship--- I think we must be careful to protect the beauty and power of simple congregational singing.

This article by Michael Raiter will help you understand why.

A-Rod's Admission: What We Should Learn

2009-02-10T12:46:00.004-05:00

Baseball fans in general and Yankee fans in particular were launched into various stages of emotion yesterday when baseball superstar Alex Rodriguez acknowledged that he knowingly used illegal performance-enhancing substances.

For some, this open admission brought about a resurgence of bitterness and anger at yet another baseball player bringing stain and disgrace to our national past time. For others, A-Rod's tell-all with Peter Gammons of ESPN brought forth a sense of heartache and disbelief that one of the best players in the game-- one who as recently as 2007 announced his freedom from steroids to Katie Couric--- has been hiding a lie for more than six years.

Speaking personally as a Yankee fan, I was dismayed but not surprised to hear that another one of the Bronx Bombers has been linked with steroid use. But as a Christian, I saw in A-Rod's admission a powerful, living illustration of a long-standing biblical principle given to us from the pen of Moses that all of us would be wise to remember today:

"...and be sure your sin will find you out." -Numbers 32:23

Now, while this principle from sacred Scripture isn't a guarantee that God will expose every last surly detail or sordid sin in this life-- the truth of the matter is that sin by nature is difficult to disguise and cover up. It's like a festering sore--- an embedded splinter under the skin--- that hurts the mind and the soul (see King David's experience in Psalm 51). Trying to keep known sin under wraps is like trying to keep an inflated volleyball submerged in a swimming pool--- you can't do it forever. Soon enough its going to come to the surface, and in most cases it comes bursting forth in all its vileness and sickening aftermath.

Certainly, A-Rod is the most current example of this principle at work, but he is by no means the first. Both sacred Scripture and secular society provide dozens of examples of those who attempted to veil their sins only to have them vetted before the blazing light of day: Samson (Judges 13-16), King David (2 Samuel 11-12), and Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5). And in more recent times, who can forget the media uproars that occurred with the public downfalls of Jim Bakker, Jimmy Swaggart, or even Ted Haggard? Surely this week's fervor over Alex Rodriguez's admission will not be the last time we see a person's sins splashed out like a kicked-over soda can.

So what is the continuing lesson for us, in the face of yet another tragic example of Numbers 32:23?

We must always remember that regardless of what our fellow man sees, we are always before the face of God-- an all-seeing, ever-present God whose view is inescapable. Every action, thought, word, and deed must be accounted for before Him whose name is "Holy, Holy, Holy". As believers, we are daily called to be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). In addition to that biblical mandate, we need to understand that in His almighty wisdom and justice, God may see fit to expose our sin and allow us to reap the just reward of our sowing. Therefore, our understanding of God's holiness and the consequences of our actions should both work together to deter us from making those devastating, life-staining, sinful choices.

If only we would give ourselves to more diligent "fear and trembling" (Phil. 2:12) before the face of God--- we wouldn't be forced to do it before the bright lights, cameras, and eyes of a watching world.

Why Jesus Is Altogether Lovely

2009-02-04T09:00:00.004-05:00

Why is Jesus altogether lovely? Why is He the greatest, highest, and most glorious treasure for every believer? Consider these thoughts from John Owen, a master theologian:

"He is altogether lovely in his person, in the glorious all-sufficiency of his deity and and the gracious purity and holiness of his humanity, authority, majesty, love, and power.

He is altogether lovely in his birth and incarnation.

He is altogether lovely in the whole of his life, in his holiness and obedience, which in the depths of poverty and persecution he showed by doing good, receiving evil, blessing others and being cursed himself all his days.

He is altogether lovely in his death, especially to sinners. He was never more glorious and desirable than when he was taken down from the cross, broken and lifeless. He carried all our sins into a land of forgetfulness. He made peace and reconciliation for us. He procured life and immortality for us.

He is altogether lovely in his work, in his great undertaking to be the Mediator between God and man, to glorify God's justice, to save our souls, to bring us to the enjoyment of God who were at such an infinite distance from him by reason of our sin.

He is altogether lovely in the glory and majesty with which he was crowned. Now he is seated at the right hand of the majesty on high. Though he is terrible to his enemies, yet he is full of mercy, love, and compassion to his loved ones.

He is altogether lovely in those graces and comforts that he pours on his people by the Holy Spirit.

He is altogether lovely in all the tender care, power, and wisdom by which he protects, safeguards, and delivers his church and people in the midst of all oppositions and persecutions to which they are exposed.

He is altogether lovely in all his ordinances and the whole of that glorious worship which he has appointed for his people, by which they draw near to him and have communion with him and his Father.

He is altogether lovely and gracious in the vengeance that he takes and will finally execute upon the stubborn enemies of himself and his people.

He is altogether lovely in the pardon he has purchased and which he gives to those who receive him.

He is altogether lovely in the reconciliation that he has wrought, in the grace that he communicates, in the comforts, the peace and the joy that he gives his saints, and in his assured preservation of them, losing none but raising all of them to eternal glory in the last day.

Yes, he is altogether lovely..."

-John Owen, Puritan theologian (1616-1683), excerpted from "Communion with God", Banner of Truth.

Christmas Caption Contest!

2008-12-15T08:31:00.008-05:00

"Christmas Eve Update" Contest Winner: Thanks to all four of you for playing--- you took a shot with a 1 in 4 chance of winning (that's way better than PowerBall!) More than anything, I hope you got a chuckle out of the picture.

I laughed at all your comments-- and decided that all four were worthy of my wife's famous seasoned crackers. Just send me an email with your right address and they're on the way. Merry Christmas!

******

Last week as I was driving home from church, I passed a house with an out of the ordinary Christmas display in the front yard. Surely, it was the most unique nativity scene I have ever seen before. Yes, only in Pennsylvania. As I laughed out loud, I knew I had to get a snapshot for the blog.

Just for fun, I invite you to write a "Caption" for this picture, and in light of the Christmas holiday the best caption will receive a jar of my wife's famous 'seasoned crackers'! Leave your caption in the comment area below and I'll announce the winner by Christmas Eve.

Three Elements of Genuine Faith: Part Three

2008-12-11T11:17:00.007-05:00

In this blog series we've been taking a closer look at the elements that make up genuine faith. In part one I argued that in order for genuine saving faith to take place, there first my be knowledge/awareness of the gospel content. It's not enough just to "have faith"-- as if faith in and of itself ever saved anyone. The object of faith must be the Lord Jesus Christ and the work He accomplished in His life, death, resurrection, and ascension for sinners.

Then in part two I shared that in order for true saving faith to occur, there must be a belief/assent to those facts of the gospel. In other words, it isn't enough just to have the right knowledge, there must be a belief in that truth--- where the person esteems it to be reliable facts. Or to say it a different way, not only must a person understand the content about Jesus being the sinless Son of God sent to redeem sinners, they must also believe it and give assent that it is indeed true.

But friends, as we press forward now into part three, what is so interesting about these first two elements of faith-- Facts/Content, and the Belief of Facts/Content--- is that Satan and his demonic hordes do in fact meet the requirements for these first two limited senses of faith. James 2:19 NASB says "You believe that God is one. You do well; the demons also believe, and shudder."

Remember, Satan and his evil workers know all the proper facts regarding Jesus Christ. They know that Jesus is the Savior, the Son of God sent from heaven. And a step further, Satan and his demonic minions not only know the facts about Jesus--- they even believe them! If the demons didn't actually believe in Jesus' almighty power as the Son of God, why else would they cower in Jesus' presence in Luke 8:31-- begging Jesus not to send them from the bodies of the swine into the eternal abyss? They certainly did believe that Jesus was the all-powerful Christ. So it is clear that Satan and his demons have the first two elements of faith-- the right content and belief in the right content as true.

But Satan and his demonic host are certainly not redeemed or right with God--- so that tells us there must be more to genuine saving faith. And that is where this third element to saving faith becomes so vital. It truly is the dividing line between true faith and false faith:

3. Genuine faith must include trust/commitment.

In years gone by, ancient scholars used to speak of this third element of faith as "fiducia", which is Latin for trust or commitment. It speaks to a real yielding of oneself to Christ which goes beyond mere knowledge of content-- or even the belief that the content is true.

When we examine the Scriptures carefully, we discover that in order for real saving faith to take place-- this third and vital element must be present--- the element of embracing Christ to the point of trusting Him and committing oneself fully to Him for eternal life. This is a most vital step, the step that Satan and his minions refuse to take. Some years ago Dr. Jim Boice wrote "...believing the truths of Christianity itself, if we do not go on to this third necessary element, only qualifies one to be a demon!"

There are so many people out there today who know the facts about Jesus-- and even "believe" that Jesus lived, died, and was resurrected. Our churches are full of them on Christmas and Easter Sundays. But what separates the true Christians from the false professors is this third element of personal trust and commitment to Jesus. While they know about Jesus, and affirm that He was the Savior--- they have never personally yielded their souls to Him and put all their trust in Him for eternal life. And because that personal yielding and commitment to Jesus is absent, so is their salvation.

Those who truly wish to be disciples of Christ, must have a radical, personal commitment to the Lord Jesus Christ, by which every aspect of living is affected. When a person truly comes to faith in Christ, this humbling yielding to His lordship affects one's values, desires, perspectives, and daily actions. As that person dies to self and yields to Christ in all things-- the Bible says that is genuine, saving faith. As Paul wrote in Galatians 2:20 NKJV "I have been crucified with Christ; it is no long I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me."

Friend, can you say that all three elements of saving faith are present in your life? That is a penetrating and hard question, but it is one that must be asked because anything less than a faith with all three biblical elements is a worthless faith that doesn't save-- its an empty faith disconnected from the Savior's life-giving work.

A Fresh Take on Habakkuk 3:17-19

2008-12-08T09:59:00.005-05:00

"Though the economy should take a downturn,

nor sales be in the stores,

the yields of banking fail

and the housing market slumps,

the work be cut off from the plant

and there be no profit in stocks,

yet I will rejoice in the LORD;

I will take joy in the God of my salvation.

God, the Lord, is my strength;

he makes my feet like the feet of a deer,

he enables me to go on to the heights."

-My paraphrase of Habakkuk 3:17-19

Abortions by Gift Certificate

2008-12-05T08:36:00.003-05:00

Everyone loves receiving a gift-card or gift certificate to their favorite store or restaurant. But could you ever imagine a gift certificate that could be used to purchase death?

In a keen article, Dr. Al Mohler describes a terrible tragedy happening this holiday: Planned Parenthood is offering gift certificates that can be used for health services... including abortions. Be sure to read this article.

Three Elements of Genuine Faith: Part Two

2008-12-03T10:41:00.009-05:00

In part one of this series of posts, I argued that in order for genuine saving faith to take place, there must be a basic understanding of the "content" of the gospel. It isn't enough just to "have faith" in the abstract--- as if the concept of faith itself ever saved anyone. Biblical, saving faith must be directed toward something-- or more importantly-- toward Someone, namely the Lord Jesus Christ. So the essential content a person needs to understand in order to exercise genuine faith must be the fundamental truths regarding Jesus Christ's life, death, burial, and resurrection.

However, a second element must be present in order for genuine saving faith to take place. What is it?

2. Genuine faith must include belief/assent.

When I was a student at a public high school, it was possible to take Old Testament Survey for class credit. In fact, my homeroom teacher was the instructor for that very class. Now, what is so intriguing is that students in that class were exposed to all the right content of the Old Testament: Adam and Eve, the Fall, Noah's Ark, even Jonah and the whale. No story was withheld. No verses were overlooked or excluded. Yet-- the overwhelming majority of those public school students did not believe what they were hearing!

In other words, for genuine, saving faith to take place, there must not only be an intellectual interaction with the truth of the gospel message, there must also be added to that a heartfelt belief and acceptance of it as true and reliable. It's not enough just to have the right content or right knowledge-- one must also believe that content and receive it as God's truth!

John 1:12 reminds us "But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to believe in His name..." 1 Cor. 1:21 also says "...it pleased God through the foolishness of the message preached to save those who believe." So, while true faith must begin with a proper understanding of the content-- it doesn't stop there. It must progress forward into belief--- accepting it and receiving it as true.

When I was traveling back from Israel last summer on an enormous 777 jet-liner, I noticed a special sticker on the seat back in front of me which read: "Your seat cushion is a flotation device".

Now just imagine that jet-liner making an emergency crash-landing into the ocean-- and two passengers are faced with having to exit the plane into the water. One passenger upon seeing that sticker remarks, "Oh, what an interesting factoid-- my seat cushion is a flotation device. What an ingenious idea!" Does that person have the right knowledge-- the proper content? Yes! But the second passenger who actually believes it--- she is the one who unbuckles her seat belt and removes her seat cushion out of its frame in preparation for swimming.

That's the difference between understanding the content and believing it. So many people today give an intellectual assent to the right facts regarding God, Jesus Christ, and the gospel-- and yet they don't believe it. It is only a disconnected head-knowledge that has never penetrated the heart.

This is a challenging reminder to us that simply having an intellectual understanding of God, Jesus, or the gospel is not sufficient for genuine saving faith! Even if someone were to have an exhaustive knowledge of all sixty-six books of Scripture-- that does not mean they are destined for eternal life, because the Bible mandates that genuine faith must always include this second important element of belief/assent.

"Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me has everlasting life." John 6:47 NKJV

Three Elements of Genuine Faith- Part One

2008-11-24T08:48:00.021-05:00

As we made our way through this year's election cycle, one of the things that intrigued me most was the ongoing publicity regarding the "faith" of the candidates. Nearly every candidate it seems, was quick to speak about their "faith", their "belief in God", or their church attendance. They know that having a faith is important to voters, so they make sure you know that they have faith. What is their faith about? Well, that’s not important. Only that they have one, that’s what matters according to the polling data.

This kind of perspective on “faith” is certainly the prevailing opinion of our day---not just among politicians, but really among Americans in general. Statistics reveal that the vast majority of Americans acknowledge having some kind of “faith”—a belief in a Supreme Being. Many will even go as far as saying that they believe in the God of the Bible, or in the Jesus of New Testament. I’m sure many of you know individuals—either family members or co-workers or neighbors across the street--- who have that kind of simplified, watered-down, simplistic approach to faith. Our world at large says that as long as you believe in God, in Jesus, and “have faith”--- that is enough for God, and that is enough to get you to heaven when you die.

There's no doubt that the Bible does make “faith” an important pre-requisite for salvation, and coming into a relationship with God. But sadly, far too many people today are subtracting from faith, reducing it, watering it down and making it less than what the Bible says it is and must be in order for a person to be genuinely right with God.

In our day of politically-correct religion, watered-down faith, and easy-believism, we desperately need God's Word to help us rightly evaluate people around us who claim to have faith---- as well as ourselves---- to see if we are truly in the family of God. So in contrast to today’s watered-down “faith”---- what three elements according to Scripture must be present in order to have true, genuine, saving faith?

1. Genuine faith must include knowledge/awareness.

As we study the pages of the New Testament the first thing we uncover when it comes to true saving faith is that a person must have an adequate understanding of the actual gospel message--- the content--- the knowledge of the real truth. The scholars of old used to used a Latin word to describe this first element necessary for saving faith—it’s the Latin word “notitia”- that Latin word means knowledge. Knowledge of the content.

One of the great Bible teachers of the 20th century—Dr. John Gerstner, expressed it like this: “Nothing can enter the sanctuary of the heart unless it first passes through the vestibule of the mind.” And that’s absolutely true. Before anyone can truly come into relationship with God through Christ by faith in their heart---- there has to an understanding in their mind of what they are exercising faith in--- there has to be an understanding of the content of the gospel truth.

In 1 Cor. 15:3-4, the Apostle Paul reminded the Corinthians of the truth----the content---that he had laid out before them since day one. Paul wrote, “I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures…” In other words, this is the core, fundamental content that must be believed in order to be saved. The point is simple: faith without gospel content is no faith at all. It’s not enough just to say you “have faith” generally speaking--- Faith in what? The Bible teaches that genuine saving faith is faith IN something. Genuine saving faith stands upon a knowledge, an understanding of God’s revealed truth—the truth of the gospel----- which is the life, death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

We need to remind ourselves, and exhort others around us that genuine saving faith must include a knowledge of truth, a legitimate understanding of the real, biblical gospel---the content of the Scriptures which explain the sinless life, substitutionary death, and bodily burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ for us. People need to hear that today’s fuzzy, vague, indistinct, politically-correct faith is nothing but a mirage in the desert. It may look real, but in the end it is nothing but a barren wasteland. This first truth also makes it clear to us that salvation never comes through an “implicit” or “implied” faith. In other words, whether it’s birth into a Christian family, marriage to a Christian spouse, or even faithful attendance at attend a Gospel-preaching church every weekend--- none of those things bring a person’s salvation.

During his day John Calvin had to deal with a society of people who assumed they were going to heaven just because they were connected to the Roman Catholic church. They didn’t know anything of the Bible—they were completely ignorant of the gospel. But nearly all of them were convinced by the medieval church that even if you didn’t know anything, as long as you trusted the church and put your faith in the church, you’d be saved in the end, regardless of your lack of knowledge. And so Calvin spent many years teaching and preaching the content of the gospel--the truth of Christ—so that people could really understand who and what their faith was being based upon. He would later write these words: “…faith rests upon knowledge, not upon pious ignorance.” -Institutes of the Christian Religion

Friends, what a reminder that your faith must be your own, and in order for it to be genuine it must include is a knowledge or awareness of the content of the biblical gospel. Putting faith "in faith" is really no faith at all!

Meet Pastor Ryan Day....All Three of Us

2008-11-18T11:12:00.004-05:00

Last year when I first launched my blog I soon discovered that that I was not the only Pastor Ryan Day in the world. Although PRD #2 contacted me via the comment box here at Light and Heat that week, I did not contact him directly for fear of tearing a hole in the space time continuum. Hey, didn't you learn anything from watching the Back to the Future movies?

Well, this morning I learned by way of an enlightening email that Pastor Ryan Day is indeed a trilogy-- a trio-- dare I say it---- a trinity? Yup, you guessed it. There are three Pastor---Ryan---Days in the world.

Pastor Ryan Day is a satellite-campus pastor for Christian Life Center in Dayton, Ohio.

Pastor Ryan Day is also associate pastor for youth and worship at Church for All Nations in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

And this humble Pastor Ryan Day continues to preach for a change here in Hazleton, Pennsylvania.

What does all this mean, you say?

Well, for those of you who were just offended when I used the word "trinity"--- apparently we really are omnipresent (Insert laugh here). But in addition to that-- when you hear that "Pastor Ryan Day" said something, you better double check because maybe I didn't really say what I said...or what I said!

This discovery certainly takes the concept of "passing the buck" to a whole new level. Wouldn't you agree, Pastor Ryan Day?

Trials Are Precious--- They Strengthen Your Faith

2008-11-14T08:22:00.005-05:00

"Faith untried may be true faith, but it is sure to be little faith, and it is likely to remain dwarfish so long as it is without trials. Faith never prospers so well as when all things are against her: tempests are her trainers, and lightnings are her illuminators.

When a calm reigns on the sea, spread the sails as you will, the ship moves not to its harbour; for on a slumbering ocean the keel sleeps too. Let the winds rush howling forth, and let the waters lift up themselves, then, though the vessel may rock, and her deck may be washed with waves, and her mast may creak under the pressure of the full and swelling sail, it is then that she makes headway towards her desired haven.

No flowers wear so lovely a blue as those which grow at the foot of the frozen glacier; no stars gleam so brightly as those which glisten in the polar sky; no water tastes so sweet as that which springs amid the desert sand; and no faith is so precious as that which lives and triumphs in adversity.

Tried faith brings experience. You could not have believed your own weakness had you not been compelled to pass through the rivers; and you would never have known God’s strength had you not been supported amid the water-floods. Faith increases in solidity, assurance, and intensity, the more it is exercised with tribulation. Faith is precious, and its trial is precious too."

-Charles H. Spurgeon (Morning and Evening, Nov.12 AM)

Humbled and Awed...Thanks, Discovery Channel

2008-11-11T11:15:00.007-05:00

I recently purchased "When We Left Earth" for my iPod, a Discovery Channel series that documents the NASA space program from its very beginnings up through the present day. Every since I was a kid in elementary school, I have been fascinated by the space program and especially the space shuttle, so naturally I found this documentary simply riveting.

If you have ever seen the Hollywood movies "The Right Stuff" and "Apollo 13" you are used to seeing "stock" footage that has been public for many years. However, with WWLE, every episode featured never-before-seen footage of astronaut training, launches, and in-flight video that was simply amazing.

While I expected to see and learn many new things through this documentary, I never even considered that this program might impact me spiritually--- but it surely did. As I watched those brave men and women ride their capsules, man-made modules, and shuttles out into space, I couldn't help but be awe-struck with the majesty of the universe, and the almighty power of God behind it. Surely the Psalmist was right when he wrote in Psalm 19:1 NASB "The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands."

When I saw that famous footage known as "earthrise", I simply could not help but be humbled that out of all the billions of stars and untold galaxies that were formed by God's hand--- His greatest concern is for Earth, and His greatest love is reserved for His own precious people that inhabit it. "When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, what is man that You are mindful of him, and the son of man that You visit him?" (Ps. 8:3-4)

Humbled and awed. Thanks, Discovery Channel.

Obama Elected...Where do we go from here?

2008-11-05T12:30:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Americans spoke loud and clear as Senator Barack Obama was elected the 44th President of the United States. Many Christians withheld their vote from him because of his ideologies and philosophies which are contrary to sacred Scripture-- and are today feeling a profound sense of discouragement, disgust, and disillusionment.

Where does the Christian go from here? What are we to think? How should we respond?

Our good friend Dr. Albert Mohler had a wonderful article posted on his website this morning that provides some biblical answers to these and other important questions. As you continue to ponder the results of this historic election, I invite you to read his commentary--- and remember that even though your candidate didn't rise to power---- God still retains his.

John Piper's Heart In This Election

2008-11-03T09:03:00.003-05:00

In this video John Piper discusses his thoughts on tomorrow's election from a Christian perspective. In his opinion, what is so captivating about this election is that as believers we are being forced to wrestle with these six important issues:

1. Womanhood
2. Race
3. Abortion
4. Prophetic perspective
5. Sovereignty of God
6. The Gospel

Celebrate Reformation Day

2008-10-31T07:22:00.002-05:00

Yes, it was on this day 491 years ago (October 31, 1517) that Martin Luther nailed his 95 theses to the church door at Wittenburg, Germany. It became the spark that lit the flame for the Protestant Reformation-- and nothing less than a recovery of the biblical gospel.

Certainly, Luther was not perfect in his theology, and he had many faults and missteps-- but God used him and the other Reformers to restore the glorious light of the gospel: that men are justified by grace through faith alone. If you know Jesus Christ personally, then take a moment today to reflect on the glorious truth of the gospel that saved you.

Many kids tonight will be celebrating their abundance of candy. I hope you'll join me in celebrating the glorious gospel instead.

What Drives Your Vote...Money or Morality?

2008-10-28T19:31:00.009-05:00

In recent weeks I became privy to a spirited conversation that took place between two professing believers regarding the upcoming election. This conversation was so intriguing to me (and so discouraging), I felt the need to write a post about it.

Christian A and Christian B were discussing the upcoming election and the candidates' stances on various issues that are important to Christians. When Christian A (CA) stated his belief that he could not vote for a pro-choice candidate, Christian B (CB) became rather inflamed and stated that there are many other important issues to think about, not just abortion. Then CB went on to discuss our economy, the price of gas, and the environmental state of the world our children will inherit.

When this conversation was relayed to me, I have to tell you I was extremely discouraged-- especially since CB portrays himself as a biblically-informed, mature believer. While I understand CB's ongoing concerns about the economy and his worries about providing for his family, I simply could not believe that this Christian was putting money ahead of morality as the key factor influencing his vote.

Like most Americans I certainly don't want to see my taxes increased and I hope my children won't have to pay $10 for a gallon of gas. But when I step inside that curtain on Election Day and lay my hand on the voting lever--- my understanding of Scripture informs my conscience and both working together constrain me to withhold a vote from any person who supports or defends the killing of the most innocent among us----precious lives molded by God (Ps. 139:15) and shaped in His image (Gen. 1:27).

In the time it takes you to read this post, thousands of abortion procedures are carried out across our land--- every day since 1972--resulting in literally millions of deaths fully approved by United States law. Does this make you weep? It should. Without a doubt this plague called "legalized abortion" is the greatest moral failure of our generation, and it is a travesty of epic proportions when Christians do not use their vote to call for a cease to this ongoing genocide. What an awful tragedy when believers who claim to know and obey God allow their wallets, 401k accounts, and tax statements to decide their vote rather than the infallible Word of God.

Christian, let me remind you that when you step inside that curtain on November 4th, you are not alone--- but accompanied by the all-seeing, all-knowing, all-holy, Almighty God. If you claim to love God and esteem His Word as divine truth---then I exhort you to use your vote to glorify Him (Col. 3:17) and uphold His ways (Ps. 86:11). Because when you pull that lever, your vote will be a powerful outward evidence of who you truly are, and what you really believe. With God watching, what will drive your vote that day?

Will it be money...or morality?

I'm Ryan Day, and I approve this message.

Preaching For A Change Television Broadcast

2008-10-13T21:43:00.002-05:00

As part of our ongoing efforts to reach out to our community with the truth of God's Word and the gospel of Christ, as of June our church has been broadcasting my Sunday morning sermon on local television--- Sundays at 10am. Our program is entitled "Preaching for a Change" and is excellently edited and produced by Scott Hill, whom I have affectionately nicknamed "The King of All Media". Here is our broadcast from two Sundays ago:

How Great Thou Art

2008-10-06T08:29:00.006-05:00

As part of my devotions this morning, I listened to a fantastic sermon from my friend Pastor Tim Leaman on the incomparable greatness of our God. His message was taken from that famous passage of Scripture in Isaiah 40.

Friend, no matter what you might be facing in your life today---whether it is a family issue, a financial crisis, or even worries about the future-- this message on the greatness of God will strengthen your faith and help you to put your focus back where it belongs.

Just click the "Play" button below to listen:

The Destroying Power of Even One Sin

2008-10-01T09:42:00.004-05:00

As you watch your life closely and see that one troublesome sin consistently coming forth in your everyday experience, what is your response to it? Do you welcome its arrival? Do you tolerate it and permit its ongoing influence? Do you nurse it along quietly--- trying to keep it hidden from others? Do you try to ease your conscience by telling yourself that its not really that bad?

Friend, if you answered "yes" to any of those questions, Thomas Watson (1620-1686) has some powerful words for you on the destroying power of even one sin. Excerpted from his book "The Godly Man's Picture", these words should stir us to understand the destroying power of even one sin in our lives. Oh, how desperately we need to fight against sin!

Watson writes, "Take a moment and consider the mischief that one sin lived in will do:

1. One sin gives Satan as much advantage against you as more sins. The fowler can hold a bird by one wing; Satan held Judas fast by one sin.

2. One sin lived in proves that the heart is not sound. He who hides one rebel in the house is a traitor to the crown. The person who indulges one sin is a traitorous hypocrite.

3. One sin will make way for more, as a little thief can open the door to more. Sins are linked and chained together. One sin will draw on more. David's adultery made way for murder. One sin never goes alone. If there is only one nest egg, the devil can brood on it.

4. One sin is as much a breach of God's law as more sins: 'He that shall offend in one point is guilty of all' (Jas. 2:10). The king may make a law against felony, treason, and murder. If a man is guilty of only one of these, he is as much a transgressor of the law is if he were guilty of all.

5. One sin lived in prevents Christ from entering. One stone in the pipe keeps out the water. One sin indulged obstructs the soul and keeps the streams of Christ's blood from running into it.

6. One sin lived in will spoil all your good duties. A drop of poison will spoil a glass of wine. Abimelech, a bastard, destroyed seventy of his brothers (Jud. 9:5). One bastard sin will destroy seventy prayers. One dead fly will corrupt the box of ointment.

7. One sin lived in will be a cankerworm to eat out the peace of the conscience. It takes away the manna from the ark and leaves only a rod...One sin is a pirate to rob a Christian of his comfort. One jarring string puts all the music out of tune. One sin countenanced will spoil the music of conscience.

8. One sin allowed will damn as well as more sins. One disease is enough to kill. If a fence is made never so strong, leave open only one gap and the wild beast may enter and tread down the corn. If only one sin is allowed to enter the soul, you leave a gap for the devil to enter. It is a simile of Chrysostom that a soldier may have his helmet and his breastplate on, but if only one place has no armor, the bullet may enter there, and he may as well be shot as if he had no armor on. So if you favor only one sin, you leave a part of your soul unprotected and the bullet of God's wrath may enter there and shoot you. One sin may shut you out of heaven. And as Jerome says, what difference is there between being shut out for more sins and for one? Therefore, beware of cherishing one sin. One millstone will sink a man into the sea as well as a hundred.

9. One sin harbored in the soul will unfit us for suffering. How soon an hour of trial may come. A man who has hurt his shoulder cannot bear a heavy burden, and a man who has any guilt in his conscience cannot carry the cross of Christ. Will he who cannot deny his lust for Christ deny his life for Christ? One unmortified sin in the soul will bring forth the bitter fruit of apostasy.

If then, you would show yourselves godly, give a certificate of divorce to every sin. Kill the Goliath sin: 'Let not sin reign' (Rom. 6:12). In the original it is "Let not sin king it over you". Grace and sin my be together, but grace and the love of sin cannot. Therefore parley with sin no longer, but with the spear of mortification, spill the heart blood of every sin."

Just one question...

2008-09-29T18:16:00.003-05:00

Many Americans, including many Christians, are extremely worried about our nation's economic crisis as well they should be. These are difficult days. But we certainly did not arrive at this dire situation overnight. Ends have means and consequences are the results of choices made.

Since God's Word declares that "righteousness exalts a nation" (Prov. 14:34), are we only now coming to understand what destroys it?

Selah.

"The Rocketeer" Comes To Real Life

2008-09-26T11:28:00.004-05:00

Disney's "The Rocketeer" is one of my all-time favorite movies: a guy wearing a jet pack flies around, beats the bad guys, and saves the day. All fiction, right? Not anymore. Just this morning Yves Rossey, a Swiss daredevil and former military pilot they're calling "The Jetman", flew over the entire English channel on a jet-pack that he crafted himself. What a great story. Check out the video below and read the rest of the story here:

What's A Christian To Think Of This Financial Crisis?

2008-09-25T07:58:00.002-05:00

Just turn on the television for more than five minutes and soon your head will be spinning with all the analysis and opinions regarding our country's current financial crisis. While every talking head has something to say, few are actually speaking coherently. (Are you listening Joe Biden?)

That's why I'm so thankful for intelligent and godly men like Dr. Al Mohler, President of the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Mohler has keen biblical insight and knows how to frame even the most difficult situations in the context of a proper biblical worldview.

On Wednesday he posted an article on his website discussing how the Christian should view the current financial meltdown. I think he hits a real 'home run'--- and I recommend it to you.

Read "A Christian View of the Economic Crisis" here.

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